Community
14 September, 2025
Cain is extremely able
MOSSMAN young worker Cain Perry has been named automotive and diesel fitting – fixed and mobile plant apprentice of the year at the 2025 TAFE Queensland Cairns Trade Excellence Awards.
Mr Perry, who did six months of work experience with Quicksilver during his final year at Mossman State School, started his diesel fitter apprenticeship at the start of 2022.
“Winning this award means more than just being apprentice of the year, it means that my hard work is paying off and being recognised,” he said.
“I enjoy my job and come to work to give 110% every day with a smile on my face.
“Once I’ve completed my apprenticeship I’d like to continue working with Quicksilver, eventually doing an MED 1 to become an engineer down the line.”
Now in the third year of his apprenticeship, the 20-year-old is also continuing a proud family legacy.
His father, Bruce Perry, is Quicksilver’s long-standing workshop supervisor and a highly-experienced diesel fitter himself, while his twin brother is completing his boiler maker apprenticeship with Quicksilver after the Mossman sugar mill closure.
Mr Perry was nominated by both his TAFE teacher and Quicksilver, and was praised for his talent, professionalism and commitment to growth – both personally and as a part of Quicksilver’s engineering team.
“Cain’s work ethic, positive attitude, and technical ability have made him an integral part of our team,” said Quicksilver’s engineering manager Aidan Calvert.
“He’s always keen to learn and you can see the pride he takes in his work,” he said.
“This award is well deserved and a great reflection of his hard work and dedication to his trade. We look forward to seeing Cain become a fully-qualified tradesman.”
While Quicksilver is renowned for its range of Great Barrier Reef experiences, Mr Perry is a quiet achiever in the ‘behind the scenes’ team who ensure the safety, ongoing maintenance and efficiency of the company’s vessels and operational assets for guests.
“We’re incredibly proud of our workshop team,” said Quicksilver managing director Tony Baker.
“For Cain, it’s wonderful to see his hard work recognised. It is wonderful to see the next generation of local talent becoming skilled tradespeople in the marine tourism industry,” he said.
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