Bailey's metalwork shines at WorldSkills competition

Published on 21 October 2024

Third year Apprentice Fitter/Machinist at Goldenfields Water Bailey Lowes has shown his talents placing within the top 3 for Turning at Regionals for the WorldSkills Australia competition.

WorldSkills is an international organisation that connects two thirds of the world’s population with it’s 89 members to support and inspire young people to get ahead with their skills. Competitions are held around the world where competitors fiercely compete across 59 official skills.

Starting at the grassroots level, Bailey Lowes competed in Turning at the Riverina regional competition in July this year, just 1 of the 42 regional competitions in Australia. Turning competitions test the skills of apprentices and students in their ability to fabricate components and products from metal and wood. Competitors have the opportunity to win gold, silver and bronze medals with the chance to then compete at national and international level.

Bailey said of the event, “It was very stressful. I don’t think, I have ever felt anything like it. I would say it’s worse than playing a grand final.” He continued by stating, “I was proud of myself for competing and pushing myself. I was one of only two who finished the task, so I am feeling good about it.”

He went on to attribute his ability to focus on getting the job done to his time at Goldenfields Water, “I did feel confident in my ability, thanks to the support of my colleagues. Particularly Rod Ryan, who is a great mentor to me.”

Post the competition, Bailey was notified that he had placed in the top 3 at the regional competition and would find out his placing at an award ceremony later in the year. In the meantime, Bailey is set to compete again, with the support of his mentor Rod, on the 23rd of October 2024 in Wollongong at a regional competition of WorldSkills this time showing off his Fitting skills.