Celebrating the people, projects and businesses shaping Queensland’s plumbing and gas industry.
On Friday, 30 October, the 26th Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards celebrated the apprentices, tradespeople, businesses and industry professionals who continue to set the benchmark for excellence across Queensland's plumbing, gas and hydraulic consultancy industries.
Presented by the Master Plumbers' Association of Queensland (MPAQ) in partnership with Reliance Worldwide Corporation (RWC), the prestigious awards recognised outstanding individuals, businesses and project teams for their commitment to quality workmanship, innovation, professional development and industry excellence.
The event brought together more than 650 guests from across the industry at The Star Brisbane, including industry leaders, business owners, apprentices, industry partners and emerging talent, for an evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements of Queensland's plumbing and gas professionals.
With 94 finalist places across 15 competitive award categories, the 2026 awards showcased the depth of talent and expertise within the industry. Across 17 awards, including the prestigious Queensland Apprentice of the Year and MPAQ President's Award, exceptional individuals and businesses were recognised for their achievements and contributions to the profession.
Master Plumbers' Association of Queensland Chief Executive Officer Penny Cornah said the awards celebrate the people and businesses whose skill, dedication and pride in their work strengthen Queensland's plumbing and gas industry.
Behind every finalist is a story of hard work, perseverance and a commitment to doing the job well. These awards give us the opportunity to recognise those contributions and celebrate the people who set an example for our industry,” said Penny.
We are proud to represent members who invest in their people, support their communities and uphold the standards that protect public health and safety. Every nominee should feel proud of their achievements and the contribution they make to our industry's future.
Celebrating the Next Generation of Plumbing Professionals
The Apprentice Awards recognised emerging tradespeople who have demonstrated exceptional technical skills, dedication, resilience and a genuine passion for building their careers in plumbing and gas.
School-Based Apprentice of the Year
Winner
Lachlan Wieland, Turbo Plumbing Solutions
Lachlan was recognised for his outstanding work ethic, positive attitude and commitment to developing his skills while balancing school, his apprenticeship and additional employment. His dedication to safety, quality workmanship and continuous learning reflects a promising future in the plumbing industry.
Construction Skills Queensland Merv Harris Memorial Bursary Award
Winner
Jyden Wehrle, Beavis & Bartels Pty Ltd
Jyden impressed with his commitment to learning, professionalism and practical skills across a range of plumbing work. His enthusiasm for the trade, strong focus on safety and willingness to embrace new challenges demonstrate the qualities of an emerging commercial plumber.
Rheem Second Year Apprentice of the Year
Winner
Caid Robinson, Beavis & Bartels Pty Ltd
Caid was recognised for his passion for plumbing, determination and commitment to personal development. Inspired by his father, who is also a plumber, Caid has continued to strengthen his technical skills and customer service approach while demonstrating resilience in overcoming personal challenges during his apprenticeship.
Caroma Third Year Apprentice of the Year
Winner
Michael Kok, Asflow Plumbing
Michael demonstrated exceptional technical understanding, professionalism and problem-solving ability throughout his apprenticeship. His methodical approach to identifying complex plumbing issues, combined with his dedication to safety and quality workmanship, has established him as an outstanding emerging tradesperson.
Building Futures Breaking Barriers Fourth Year Apprentice of the Year
Winner
Ethan Rowe, Prime Plumbing
Ethan was recognised for his remarkable determination, resilience and dedication to completing his apprenticeship despite significant personal challenges. His commitment to workplace safety, professional standards and supporting his local Emerald community reflects the values of a dedicated and responsible tradesperson.
Reece Queensland Apprentice of the Year
Winner
Michael Kok, Asflow Plumbing
One of the evening's most prestigious apprentice honours, the Queensland Apprentice of the Year Award was presented to Michael Kok in recognition of his outstanding technical knowledge, professionalism and commitment to the plumbing and gas industry.
Having also secured the Third Year Apprentice of the Year Award, Michael's achievements highlight his exceptional ability to solve complex challenges, demonstrate leadership and consistently deliver high standards of workmanship. His dedication to continuous improvement and professional development positions him as a promising future leader in the industry.
Recognising Industry Leaders, Businesses and Professionals
The Business and Individual Awards celebrated the people and businesses driving excellence across Queensland's plumbing and gas industry through outstanding leadership, customer service, mentorship and innovation.
Tradelink Plumbing or Gas Trainer of the Year
Winner
Dean Wapsas, TAFE Queensland
Dean was recognised for his exceptional commitment to training and mentoring the next generation of plumbing professionals. Combining extensive practical experience with industry knowledge, his approach to education goes beyond technical competency, supporting students' professional growth, confidence and wellbeing.
Tradelink Rising Star Award
Winner
Caleb Holland, James Giles Plumbing
The inaugural Rising Star Award recognised Caleb for his impressive technical expertise, reliability and commitment to continuous improvement. With experience across complex commercial and industrial plumbing and gas projects, Caleb has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving ability while continuing to develop his qualifications and mentor emerging apprentices.
Reliance Worldwide Corporation Businessperson of the Year
Winner
Jason Kitching, Hydrocove Plumbing
Jason was recognised for his leadership in transforming Hydrocove Plumbing from a one-person operation into a successful and innovative business. Through investment in employee development, customer service improvements and modern business systems, Jason has fostered a workplace culture that prioritises people, performance and professional growth.
His achievements include delivering significant business growth, strengthening customer satisfaction and successfully completing major projects, including Bluey's World Brisbane.
The Services Trades College Australia Tradesperson of the Year
Winner
Dean Rostirolla, D & P Plumbing
With more than 33 years of experience, Dean was recognised for his exceptional technical expertise, professionalism and enduring contribution to the plumbing industry. His extensive experience across residential, commercial, government, mining and rural plumbing is complemented by his commitment to mentoring apprentices, supporting regional employment and maintaining high industry standards.
Highly Commended Runner-Up
Scott Wright, Hydrocove Plumbing
Scott was highly commended for his technical expertise, professionalism and dedication to delivering quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. His strong understanding of Australian Standards, safety and compliance, combined with his commitment to mentoring apprentices, reflects his valuable contribution to Hydrocove Plumbing and the wider industry.
Austbrokers Comsure Andrea Vogler Women in Business Award
Winner
Perri Kitching, Hydrocove Plumbing
Perri was recognised for her leadership in driving business growth, operational improvements and innovation at Hydrocove Plumbing. Her commitment to developing people, implementing effective business systems and supporting women in the trades has made a significant contribution to both the business and the wider industry.
Her leadership was also instrumental in the successful delivery of the Bluey's World Brisbane project, completed on time and defect-free.
Highly Commended Runner-Up
Petra Rostirolla, D & P Plumbing
Petra was highly commended for her outstanding leadership and contribution to building D & P Plumbing into a respected regional business over almost three decades. Her dedication to mentoring women, supporting apprentices and fostering an inclusive, people-focused workplace has helped create opportunities for others while driving continuous business improvement and innovation.
Service Excellence Award
Winner
Tom Moore Plumbing
With more than 46 years of service throughout the Scenic Rim, Tom Moore Plumbing was recognised for its outstanding commitment to customer satisfaction, professionalism and continuous improvement.
The business has successfully embraced modern technology and operating systems while preserving its longstanding reputation for personalised service, community relationships and customer trust. Its continued investment in staff development and customer experience demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable growth.
Highly Commended Runner-Up
Hydrocove Plumbing
Hydrocove Plumbing was highly commended for its commitment to service excellence, innovative customer experiences and employee wellbeing. Through its seven-touchpoint customer communication system, same-day service model and more than 200 five-star reviews, the business has demonstrated a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Its investment in staff development, flexible work practices and continuous improvement further reflects its commitment to delivering exceptional service.
MPAQ President's Award
Winner
Paul Adams, Rheem Australia
The prestigious MPAQ President's Award was presented to Paul Adams in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedication and long-standing contribution to Queensland's plumbing and gas industry.
With 30 years of service at Rheem Australia, where he currently serves as Queensland State Manager, Paul has also been a valued supporter of MPAQ for more than two decades.
His ongoing involvement in Association events, industry initiatives and member activities reflects his genuine commitment to strengthening industry relationships and supporting the plumbing profession.
Paul's contribution, loyalty and continued support of the Association make him a deserving recipient of this distinguished honour.
Showcasing Excellence in Plumbing, Gas and Hydraulic Projects
The Project Awards recognised outstanding achievements in technical delivery, innovation, safety, design and workmanship across Queensland's residential, commercial and infrastructure sectors.
MM Kembla Outstanding Copper Plumbing and Gas Project of the Year
Winner
Ipswich Hospital Expansion Stage 2 (Main Works), CC P&D
CC P&D was recognised for its exceptional workmanship and technical expertise in delivering copper plumbing installations as part of the Ipswich Hospital Expansion Stage 2.
The project demonstrated outstanding attention to detail, safety and compliance while overcoming complex construction challenges. The extensive use of copper and the quality of installation showcased the team's commitment to delivering essential infrastructure to the highest professional standards.
AHSCA Queensland Hydraulic Consultancy Design of the Year
Winner
Howard Smith Wharves Pontoons – Downstream, Streamline Hydraulics
Streamline Hydraulics was recognised for its innovative hydraulic design solutions on the unique Howard Smith Wharves Pontoons project.
The floating development presented complex challenges involving structural movement, flooding and regulatory requirements. Through detailed engineering, collaboration and innovative technology, the team delivered practical and sustainable hydraulic solutions that demonstrated exceptional technical expertise and thoughtful design.
Plumbing Plus Domestic Plumbing or Gas Project of the Year
Winner
La Rosa, Sadliers Crossing, MSJ Plumbing
MSJ Plumbing received recognition for its exceptional workmanship on the La Rosa residential project at Sadliers Crossing.
The project showcased meticulous planning, effective coordination and high-quality plumbing installations, including thoughtfully integrated rainwater and stormwater solutions. The team's commitment to safety, industry standards and attention to detail demonstrated excellence throughout every stage of delivery.
Zip Water Commercial Plumbing or Gas Project of the Year
Winner
Ipswich Kart Club Facilities Upgrade, Plumbmasters Gold Coast
Plumbmasters Gold Coast was recognised for delivering a significant facilities upgrade at the Ipswich Kart Club, improving toilet and shower facilities and providing safe drinking water infrastructure to support the Club's growth.
Working within the budget constraints of a not-for-profit organisation, the team collaborated with stakeholders and other trades to successfully deliver the project on time and within budget. The completed facilities will provide lasting benefits to competitors, spectators and the wider community.
Celebrating Excellence and Shaping the Future of the Industry
The 2026 Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards highlighted the exceptional talent, dedication and professionalism that continue to strengthen Queensland's plumbing and gas industry.
From apprentices beginning their careers to experienced industry leaders and businesses delivering outstanding projects, this year's recipients reflect the skill, innovation and commitment that drive the industry forward.
MPAQ congratulates all 2026 award winners, highly commended runners-up and finalists on their achievements and thanks the sponsors, industry partners and guests who contributed to the success of this year's celebration.
The Association also extends its appreciation to Reliance Worldwide Corporation (RWC), its event partner, and all award sponsors for their continued support in recognising and celebrating excellence across the industry.
Congratulations to all the 2026 Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards winners and highly commended recipients!