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DUX WINNER FIRES AHEAD

Four years as a volunteer fire fighter have helped 22-year Robert Heriot develop the skills and attitude that have earned him the 2004 National Dux of the Year award.

References from plumbing apprentices' employers, customers and the wider community are considered in the judging of the national competition.

Robert's practicality, efficiency and service-based attitude were widely recognised - and combined with his academic performance saw him claim the Dux of the Year trophy, a gold-plated wrench, in addition to a $3000 cash prize.

The third year apprentice studying at Regency Institute of TAFE in SA served in the 2003 NSW/VIC bushfires and also won the Peter Stacy Award for the most improved firefighter.

"Robert is a great example of Dux of the Year," said Dux Hot Water general manager Les Patterson. "He puts into practice the qualities we support in plumbing apprentices through this competition. "

"It's gratifying to see our TAFEs turning out apprentices of the calibre we see each year through the Dux of the Year Awards," Mr Patterson said.

Robert Heriot said after the win that using past experiences and learning from others had helped him develop the skills to carry out tasks quickly and efficiently.

"I believe that providing a complete service is far more than just fixing the plumbing problem," he said.

"Little things make a big difference with customers, like looking respectable, being well-mannered, and most definitely cleaning up any mess you make."

In addition to Robert receiving the Dux trophy and his cash prize, his employer Brownrigg Plumbing also received a cash prize and the Regency Institute of TAFE SA was awarded $1000 of Dux products.

"The competition, now in its fourth year, was created to support the Australian plumbing industry and recognise the importance of encouraging our apprentices - the future of the industry," Les Patterson said.

2004 Dux of the Year State winners, who received a trophy and $500 cash prize, were Gary Kirkland, NSW; Benjamin Chambers, SA; Peter Greer, Qld; Brendan Murfett, Vic; and Benjamin Thomas for Tasmania. No entries of sufficient merit for an award were received from WA, NT or the ACT.

The judging panel, comprised of Dux Hot Water and TAFE teaching personnel, reported that the general calibre of 2004 entries was high.

The bulk of the applications showed a wide range of skills in the industry outside of pure plumbing. These included musical abilities, high sporting achievements, charity work, first aid, fire fighting and a willingness to help families renovate.

SA apprentice Robert Heriot with the 2004 Dux Plumbing Apprentice of the Year Award certificate and trophy.