Mr Dolling, 21, was awarded the gold medallion at the regional level of the competition, alongside fellow University of Ballarat apprentices Chris Cvirn and Brenton Carter, who took out silver and bronze prizes respectively.

Ballarat is one of just three regions across the country that has not missed a competition since the WorldSkills competition began in 1981.

WorldSkills Australia gives Australians under the age of 23 the opportunity to gain new skills and compete against their peers in their chosen trade, and fast-track their skills and career development.

Ballarat Wimmera WorldSkills committee member Peter Morey said the competition was a great way for young people to test themselves against their peers.

“It’s a very heavy schedule of training – they don’t just get it handed to them,” he said. “It’s fantastic — Ballarat has a terrific history with this competition.”