Two students from St Columban’s College in Caboolture have secured major industry scholarships at a prestigious state-wide event recognising the best young talent in Queensland’s aviation sector.
The achievements were announced at the Aviation Australia 2025 Aerospace Industry Education Awards, where more than 40 finalists from across the state gathered to celebrate excellence in training. The event highlighted the hard work of students and teachers across 14 different categories, ranging from academic results to leadership and innovation.
Local Talent Leads the Way

St Columban’s College in Caboolture emerged as a key training ground for the future workforce. Student Bailey Buckle received the Spirit of Boeing Award, a significant recognition in the field. His peer, Francia Leoryn Villanueva, was also recognised for her potential, winning the Female Aerospace Scholarship.
These wins place Caboolture firmly on the map as a hub for aspiring aviation professionals. The awards aim to support students who show a clear dedication to their studies and a passion for the aerospace industry. Winners at the event received various prizes to help their careers, including behind-the-scenes tours, mentoring from industry experts, and financial support through scholarships.
Excellence Across the State

While Caboolture students stood out, the awards also recognised talent from other regions. Miami State High School was named the Aerospace Gateway School of the Year. One of its students, Eve Bowler, took home the Young Innovator Award.
Distance was not a barrier for Penny Colyer, a student with the Capricornia School of Distance Education. She was named a co-winner of the Future Aerospace Award alongside Faith Enoka from Marsden State High School. Penny pursues her studies while living away from major aviation centres, splitting her time with Moura State High School in Central Queensland.
Iona College also had a successful showing. Student Hayden Hookham won the Young Aviator Award. The judges noted that Hayden showed strong leadership and had reported on how low-cost carriers have changed the industry. His schoolmate, Harrison Medill, won the Aviation Enterprise Award.
In the teaching category, Marty Hollis from St Mary’s College Toowoomba was named the winner of the Teacher Excellence Award, with Sarah Loos from St Thomas More College recognised as the runner-up.
Focus on Skills and the Future
The awards ceremony served as a platform to discuss the broader state of vocational training in Queensland. The Crisafulli Government stated that the event is part of a plan to rebuild confidence in the training system. Government representatives indicated a focus on fixing skills shortages and ensuring that training leads directly to employment.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said that the awards shine a light on exceptional people in the system. She noted that the commitment shown by students like Hayden, Faith, and Penny suggests the industry is in safe hands. According to the Minister, these winners are role models who will help build a stronger economy.
Aviation Australia CEO Glenn Ryan AM said the organisation is proud of the students and schools involved in the Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools project. He mentioned that more young people are choosing aviation careers every year. He also thanked the schools and industry partners for building pathways that connect classroom learning with real job outcomes.
Published Date 03-December-2025

















