Angaston local Joel Verne has been awarded the prestigious FCTA-Building Careers Jim Baff Apprentice of the Year Award for 2023. Joel, a skilled stonemason and bricklayer with Roehr Builders, has excelled not only in bricklaying but also in tiling, plastering, and renovation work. His dedication to craftsmanship has earned him high praise from his employer, Mick Roehr, who describes him as a “true craftsman” with a passion for intricate builds and a readiness to mentor future apprentices.
Joel’s journey to success wasn’t without challenges. Balancing the demands of an apprenticeship while being a father to three young children, Joel took on the trade at 24, and his hard work has clearly paid off. Now, most of his creative work can be seen across the Barossa Valley, where he has gone from working as a cellar hand to building at the very wineries he once worked for.
The Jim Baff Apprentice of the Year Award recognises resilience and excellence in the trades, while the Connor Musolino Award honours the memory of a quiet achiever in bricklaying.
Joel’s award highlights the value of apprenticeship programs in building successful careers. If you’re inspired by Joel’s story, consider exploring opportunities in the trades or encouraging those around you to take that first step. Recognising local talent like Joel plays a crucial role in fostering the future of skilled trades in our community.
Read more about Joel’s achievement in The Barossa Leader.
