There’s a familiar feeling that comes with Rising Stars season. A quiet sense of anticipation. Conversations in workshops. A pause to think about the apprentices who turn up early, stay curious and have a real passion for their work, the industry and automotive.
That moment is here again.
Rising Stars nominations are now open, and the 2026 program is shaping up to be one of the strongest yet. With exciting sponsors on board, a prize pool of over $30,000, and a major first for the awards, this year marks an important step forward.
For Lachlan Madsen, last year’s overall winner, Rising Stars was never about the spotlight.
“I think it’s important, not for me to win an award, but it’s really important to showcase that young people can do just as well, and that the motor trade is something people should focus more on.”
At just 16 years old at the time, Lachlan’s words capture what the Capricorn Rising Stars Awards have always stood for. Recognition that goes beyond trophies. A chance to show that the next generation is capable, committed and ready to build a future in the trade.
Why nominations matter
For workshops, Rising Stars is a chance to pause and recognise the people you’re building your business with.
Programs like this didn’t exist ten years ago. Apprentices worked hard, learned the trade and moved on — often without much recognition beyond the workshop walls. Imagine if they had been celebrated earlier. Imagine if more young people had seen those stories, those pathways, those opportunities.
Where would the industry be now if we had shone that spotlight sooner?
That’s why Member nominations matter. Rising Stars only exists because workshops take the time to put someone forward. Because you notice the apprentice who stays back to get it right. The one who takes feedback on board. The one who shows they’re serious about a future in the trade.
By nominating an apprentice, you’re not only recognising a single individual;you’re helping show the next generation that the motor trade is worth backing, and that it offers real careers with real progression.
Strong support, real rewards
This year’s Rising Stars program is proudly supported by major sponsor Castrol, whose long‑standing commitment to the automotive industry and apprentice development continues to play an important role in the program’s success.
We also thank our supporting sponsors, whose involvement helps make Rising Stars possible and ensures meaningful rewards for both apprentices and the workshops who support them.
In 2026, the prize pool exceeds $30,000, divided across regional and overall winners, including workshop prizes. Each overall winner — one from Australia and, for the first time ever, one from New Zealand — will receive a $7,500 cash prize to support their automotive career.
But the value of Rising Stars goes beyond prizes. For many apprentices, it’s the first time their effort is recognised outside the workshop. It builds confidence, opens doors and reinforces that the work they’re doing matters.
Nominations are now open!
Nominations for the Capricorn Rising Stars Awards are now open. Take some time to think about the apprentices in your workshop who show the right attitude, put in the effort and take pride in learning the trade.
To learn more, or to nominate click here.
