The Rising Stars Awards, now in their eighth year, shine a spotlight on the next generation of automotive talent across Australia and New Zealand. Backed by industry suppliers Castrol, Repco and The Workshop Whisperer, the program celebrates apprentices who go the extra mile — like Lachlan, whose journey from tinkering in the family garage to solving complex workshop challenges is nothing short of inspiring.
This year marks a new chapter for the awards, with Capricorn recognising Region Winners alongside the Overall Winner, meaning more apprentices are being celebrated than ever before. It’s a timely move, as the industry faces a skills crunch, the rise of EVs and growing competition.
Lachlan’s passion for the trade was sparked early, helping his mechanic dad in the garage. These days, he’s known for his sharp diagnostic skills and cool-headed approach to tricky problems, whether it’s tracking down a damaged engine control unit (ECU) wire or uncovering a hidden parasitic drain. A standout moment came when he mastered the oscilloscope to diagnose a misfire, a skill he says changed how he tackles every job.
“Lachlan’s nomination speaks volumes about his curiosity, persistence and drive to succeed,” said Capricorn Group CEO Brad Gannon. “Recognising apprentices like Lachlan is key to keeping the industry firing on all cylinders.”
“Lachlan demonstrates both attitude and determination,” added Capricorn Group CEO Brad Gannon. “He’s not just learning - he’s leading, and that mindset will take him far.”
Lachlan’s goal? “In five years, I see myself stepping into a leadership role, ideally managing or even running a workshop. I’m passionate about both the technical and business side of the trade, and I want to combine those skills to build a team and deliver high quality services” said Lachlan. Blending technical know-how with a passion for mentoring the next wave of apprentices and lifting diagnostic standards across the board, Lauchlan has a strong future ahead.
Winning a Rising Stars Award can be a game-changer — not just for the apprentice, but for the workshop that’s backed their journey. Lachlan now joins five other Region Winners in the race for the national title, to be announced later this year.
In 2025, Region Winners will receive cash and vouchers from sponsors Castrol and Repco
Find out more at capricorn.coop/rising-stars (for print cap.coop/stars).
For further information contact media@capricorn.coop or +61 455 731 955.
Images:
Lachlan Madsen, 2025 Capricorn Rising Stars NSW/ACT Region Winner, celebrates his win, holding his trophy and framed certificate
Lachlan Madsen, 2025 Capricorn Rising Stars NSW/ACT Region Winner, working on a car with his employer Timothy Ihuede
About Capricorn Society
Capricorn is one of Australia and New Zealand’s largest and most dynamic Member-owned organisations. Since 1974, we’ve provided our Members with financial and business solutions to make running a business easier. Our flagship Trade Account offers instant credit with over 2,000 Preferred Suppliers, simplified monthly expenses, and a generous rewards program.
We have a strong foundation in the automotive and machinery aftermarkets. Our vibrant community includes over 30,000 Members across Australia and New Zealand, from national franchises to your local family workshop. Last year, Capricorn facilitated over $3.7bn in sales with our Preferred Suppliers.
At Capricorn, we're about more than just products and services. We work hard to ensure that our Members, Preferred Suppliers and People feel like they're part of something bigger — a Community which is connected and supported to make a difference, while having some fun along the way!