Riviera has been awarded 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.
The Australian Training Awards are a Federal Government initiative recognising excellence and best practice in vocational education and training across the country. The Australian Apprenticeships Employer Award celebrates employers who deliver innovative training that creates strong outcomes for apprentices and trainees, while contributing positively to their local communities.
In presenting the award, the Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills and Training, praised Riviera’s long term commitment 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.”
The award was accepted on behalf of Riviera by Apprentice and Training Manager Keira Badke, who said apprentices formed a vital part of the company’s 950 strong workforce, with around 110 apprentices currently training across a wide range of disciplines.
Central to Riviera’s success is the Riviera Academy of Excellence, a purpose built 680 square metre training facility that integrates classroom learning directly with live production experience. The Academy includes 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.
“Riviera’s Propel in Excellence Program, now in its twentieth year, further supports apprentice development through up to 40 modules covering leadership, communication, financial literacy and personal growth.”
Riviera also works closely with Registered Training Organisations including Major Training Group, TAFE Queensland and PARTEC to deliver industry relevant, onsite training across multiple trades. Beyond formal training partnerships, the company collaborates with more than 100 high schools across Southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales, offering school based apprenticeships, site tours, and participation in regional career expos. Support is also provided for mature age apprentices and those re entering the workforce.
Riviera Owner Rodney Longhurst said investing in apprentices was fundamental to the company’s future.
“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.”
Riviera is the most awarded luxury motor yacht manufacturer in Australia. Since its establishment in 1980, the company has launched more than 6,200 motor yachts and developed the careers of hundreds of apprentices from its 16.8 hectare Gold Coast facility.
Riviera offers apprenticeships in 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
MEM30319 Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (Surface Finishing)
