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    TAFE NSW Granville | 26 March 2026

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    Meat and allied trades students shine at national awards

    ’Receiving the Best Overall in Australia 2026 – Bacon (short cut rashers) award for a second time is a remarkable achievement. It highlights the talent and commitment of TAFE NSW students, as well as the guidance and support of our teaching staff.’
    Martin Paynter, Head Teacher, TAFE NSW, Granville

    TAFE NSW meat and allied trades students won top honours at the Australian Meat Industry Council Charcuterie and Meat Industry Excellence National Awards. Students from the Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher) and Certificate III in Meat Processing (Smallgoods – Manufacture) courses excelled, taking home four awards:

    • Gold: Best Overall in Australia 2026 – Bacon (short cut rashers)
    • Gold: Bacon (full rashers)
    • Gold: Ham (bone-in)
    • Silver: Mild Cacciatore Salami
    Martin Paynter, TAFE NSW Granville Head Teacher of Meat and Allied Trades and TAFE NSW Team Lead stand holding their AMIC Best Overall award. They’re wearing business suits, white shirts and ties standing in front of a dark blue, branded award curtain.

    The Best Overall in Australia 2026 – Bacon (short cut rashers) award marks the second time TAFE NSW has received this national distinction.

    Martin Paynter, TAFE NSW Granville Head Teacher of Meat and Allied Trades, said the awards reflect the skill, dedication and professionalism of both students and staff.

    "Receiving the Best Overall in Australia 2026 – Bacon (short cut rashers) award for a second time is a remarkable achievement. It highlights the talent and commitment of TAFE NSW students, as well as the guidance and support of our teaching staff," Mr Paynter said.

    "Winning four awards is excellent recognition and demonstrates the strength of our courses. The training gives students the skills, knowledge and experience needed to succeed in the industry while fostering professionalism, teamwork and pride in their craft. We’re proud to see their efforts acknowledged at a national level," he added.

    The Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) National Apprentice of the Year award was also announced. TAFE NSW Hamilton student Riley Homer, who studied the Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher), placed third. In 2025, Riley also won the state-level AMIC NSW/CNB Apprentice of the Year award.

    Media contact: Karen Farrell, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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