Riviera has taken out the Gold Australian Apprenticeships Employer Award, the highest honour in its category at the 2025 Australian Training Awards, announced in December at the Darwin Convention Centre.
A Federal Government initiative, the Australian Training Awards recognise excellence and best practice in vocational education and training across the country. The Australian Apprenticeships Employer Award honours employers whose innovative training programmes generate strong outcomes for apprentices and trainees while making a positive contribution to their local communities.
The Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills and Training, presented the award and praised Riviera's long-term dedication to skills development and career pathways. "Your achievement reflects a strong commitment to creating genuine career opportunities and ensuring apprentices receive the best skills and experience needed to succeed," Minister Giles said. "Your investment in training through the Riviera Academy of Excellence demonstrates a clear commitment to developing skilled professionals and shaping the future of marine manufacturing. Thank you for your outstanding contribution to the VET sector. Together, we can ensure Australia remains a global leader in skills and innovation, driving prosperity for generations to come. Congratulations on this significant and well deserved achievement."
Apprentice and Training Manager Keira Badke accepted the award on behalf of Riviera, noting that apprentices form a vital part of the company's 950-strong workforce, with around 110 currently training across a wide range of disciplines.
At the heart of Riviera's training operation is the Riviera Academy of Excellence, a purpose-built 680 square metre facility that weaves classroom learning directly into live production experience. The Academy comprises two fully operational workshops, two learning hubs including a dedicated drafting room, offices, and a meeting space. "Our apprentices train alongside experienced mentors in a real world environment, ensuring their skills are developed to the highest industry standards," Badke said.
Badke also highlighted the Propel in Excellence Program, now in its twentieth year, which offers up to 40 modules covering leadership, communication, financial literacy, and personal growth.
Riviera works with Registered Training Organisations including Major Training Group, TAFE Queensland, and PARTEC to deliver industry-relevant, onsite training across multiple trades. The company also collaborates with more than 100 high schools across Southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales, providing school-based apprenticeships, site tours, and involvement in regional career expos. Support extends to mature-age apprentices and those re-entering the workforce.
Owner Rodney Longhurst views investment in apprenticeships as fundamental to Riviera's future as a manufacturer. "We are building world class motor yachts, and to do that we must have a world class team," Longhurst said. "Everyone here who excels learned their trade through mentoring and shared knowledge. We work hard to create that same empowering environment today. This recognition is phenomenal for our team and validates the real difference their efforts are making."
Australia's most awarded luxury motor yacht manufacturer, Riviera was established in 1980 and has since launched more than 6,200 motor yachts, building the careers of hundreds of apprentices from its 16.8-hectare Gold Coast facility.
Apprenticeships at Riviera span a wide choice of trade disciplines, including: UEE30811 Certificate III in Electrotechnology, MSF30722 Certificate III in Upholstery, MSF30322 Certificate III in Cabinetmaking & Timber Technology, MEM30719 Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction, MEM30419 Certificate III in Engineering – Fixed & Mobile Plant Mechanic, PMB30121 Certificate III in Polymer Processing (Composites), MEM30122 Certificate III in Furniture Finishing – French Polishing, MEM30319 Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade – Boiler Maker/Welder, and MEM30319 Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (Surface Finishing).
