July 1 - 31, 2026: Issue 656

 

Forestville Apprentice Wins Inaugural P.M.E.A. Apprentice of the Year Award

P.M.E.A's Graeme Smith with Inaugural Apprentice of the Year Mitchell Doolan

A young Forestville tradesman with a passion for high-performance motorsport has been recognised as the inaugural recipient of the Pittwater Motoring Enthusiasts Association (P.M.E.A.) 2026 Apprentice of the Year Award.

Twenty-two-year-old Mitchell Doolan received the honour at the Association's Annual General Meeting on Tuesday evening, July 21, where he was presented with a $1,000 cash award, a year's membership of P.M.E.A. and a Certificate of Achievement.

Established following a generous donation from a P.M.E.A. member, the new annual award recognises outstanding apprentices in the traditional motor trades across Sydney's Northern Beaches while encouraging young people to pursue rewarding careers in the automotive industry.

P.M.E.A. spokesman Graeme Smith said the quality of nominations exceeded the judging panel's expectations.

"We were delighted with both the number and the calibre of applications received. It was clear there are some exceptionally talented young people entering our industry, making the judges' task a very difficult one," Mr Smith said.

After completing his Light Vehicle Mechanical apprenticeship in 2025, Mitchell elected to further expand his skills by undertaking an Auto Electrical apprenticeship - a decision driven by his ambition to build a career in professional motorsport.

Recognising that modern race vehicles rely heavily on sophisticated electrical, electronic and data acquisition systems, Mitchell saw the additional qualification as essential to achieving his long-term career goals.

Mitchell began his career with P R Technology as a work experience student and has since earned responsibility for the workshop's lead motorsport program. His role includes preparing, developing and providing trackside support for a Porsche 992 Cup car and a twin-turbo VR38-powered Ginetta G55 competing in Australian and World Time Attack events.

Mr Smith said Mitchell impressed the judging panel in every aspect of the selection process.

"Mitchell demonstrated exceptional technical ability, a genuine commitment to continuous learning and a passion for the automotive industry. Just as importantly, he displayed the maturity, professionalism and character that make him an outstanding ambassador for the trade."

He said P.M.E.A. hoped the award would become an important annual recognition for apprentices on the Northern Beaches.

"P.M.E.A. has always been committed to preserving our motoring heritage while supporting the future of the industry. By recognising outstanding apprentices like Mitchell, we're investing in the next generation of skilled tradespeople and helping ensure these valuable skills continue for many years to come."

Founded in 1994, the Pittwater Motoring Enthusiasts Association is dedicated to promoting friendship among motoring enthusiasts and encouraging the preservation, restoration, maintenance, use and display of historic vehicles and machinery throughout Sydney's Northern Beaches and Pittwater region.

Find out more at: www.pittwatermotorclub.org.au