Riviera Honoured with Leadership Medal for Investment in Apprenticeships
Keira Badke, Apprentice and Training Manager at Riviera accepted the 2025 Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal from MIGAS.
Riviera, Australia’s premier luxury motor yacht builder, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal, presented by MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees during National Apprenticeship Week 2025.
Conferred by the MIGAS Board of Directors, the prestigious gong recognises organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to apprenticeship training and development.
“Riviera has shown a demonstrable long-term investment in apprenticeship training, increased diverse participation, and established partnerships with schools and industry,” MIGAS Chief Executive Officer, David Hoey, said.
“The quality of formal and on-the-job training is first rate, and apprentices are learning in cutting edge workshops, in a highly supportive environment, to transform their raw talent into master craftsmanship,” he said.
Riviera Apprentice and Training Manager, Keira Badke, accepted the Medal at an invitation only business lunch to mark National Apprenticeship Week Australia.
"Our team is honoured to be awarded the Australian Apprenticeship Leadership Medal by MIGAS, and I was thrilled to accept on behalf of the extraordinary 950 plus strong team at Riviera Australia," said Ms Badke said.
"Our unwavering commitment to our comprehensive training program, which includes more than 130 apprentices and the ongoing development across our entire business, is the cornerstone of our success," she said.
The team from Riviera attended the MIGAS National Apprenticeship Week luncheon to receive the Leadership Medal.
Riviera's commitment to excellence in apprenticeship training is exemplified by their Academy of Excellence, officially opened in 2024. The state-of-the-art facility features two halls of fame celebrating graduated apprentices who now hold key positions within the company, alongside an impressive display of Riviera's national and international awards.
The company's apprenticeship program, which began in the early 1990s, has trained over 400 tradespeople, operating on the philosophy that building world-class luxury motor yachts requires developing world-class people. The program exceeds industry standards and emphasises cutting-edge technology and techniques.
"This award is a direct reflection of the dedication of our owner Rodney Longhurst, and his entire team to relentless improvement and refinement in every aspect of our business—most importantly in the development of our people," Ms Badke added.
The Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal represents MIGAS's recognition of organisations that create fertile ground for people to thrive in trade careers and beyond.
About Riviera Australia
Riviera is a leading manufacturer of luxury motor yachts, known for its commitment to excellence in craftsmanship and innovation. With over three decades of experience in apprenticeship training, Riviera continues to invest in the future of Australia's marine industry through its comprehensive training programs and state-of-the-art facilities.
Visit www.rivieraaustralia.com to learn more and view the Riviera fleet.
About MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees
MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees is a leading not-for-profit dedicated to fostering excellence in apprenticeship and trainee programs across Australia. Through initiatives like the Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal, MIGAS recognises and promotes best practices in apprenticeship training and development.
For more information visit www.migas.com.au and www.nationalapprenticeshipweek.com.au.