By Bonny Burrows
Berwick’s Patrick Andrews says he is one of the lucky ones – he gets to do what he loves each day.
The 19-year-old apprentice plumber is only a few months into his four-year training, but has already made a lasting impression in the industry, winning a national $300 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant to assist with tool costs.
He’s not really sure why he was chosen out of the hundreds of entries, but puts it down to simply enyoying what he does.
“I love working with my hands and getting to do something different each day,” Patrick said.
“And the guys I work with are fantastic; it’s nice when everyone gets along.”
The financial support is a welcome relief for Patrick, who is the eldest of six children and the breadwinner of his household.
Tools were expensive, Patrick said, and apprentice pay rates made it difficult at times.
“But we’re getting by,” he said.
Patrick’s boss and uncle Matt Shinners, owner of Shinners Plumbing, said the grant would take some pressure off the young tradie, both in the workplace and at home.
“Patrick has been relied upon to be the man of the house since his mother and father separated,” Mr Shinner said.
“His mother now has a serious disease for which she requires a transplant.
“This grant will go a long way to help support Patrick during this tough time.”
Patrick isn’t quite sure what the future holds.
He does, however, have big dreams including becoming a fully qualified plumber and eventually climbing Mt Everest.
“But for now I am focussing on my studies and helping my family as best I can,” Patrick said.
“This money will help me do that.”
