Auto electrical apprentice Zahlee Jaye Wheeler, from Tinana, has been named the Queensland Regional Winner in the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.

Zahlee began her automotive career as a school-based apprentice at 16 and has since become a respected mentor and emerging leader at Allweld Manufacturing. She receives $3,000 cash as a Regional Winner and will now be considered for the Overall Australian Rising Star Award.

Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer Brad Gannon said Zahlee was already making an important contribution to the industry.

"Zahlee has achieved a great deal throughout her apprenticeship, but what stands out is the impact she's having on others around her.

"Whether she's mentoring apprentices, supporting young women considering a trade or developing her own skills as an auto electrician, she's making a huge contribution to the future of the industry."

Allweld Manufacturing Operations Manager Steve Scheikowski said Zahlee’s influence extended beyond her technical work.

“She leads by example every day, not because she has to, but because she genuinely cares about doing the right thing and helping others succeed. Her professionalism, leadership and willingness to give back to the community make her an outstanding role model and an asset to the future of manufacturing.”

Zahlee, who also won the 2026 Women in Manufacturing Apprentice Award, said she wanted to encourage more women to pursue trades.

“I was inspired to enter the automotive industry because I loved the work and saw an opportunity to pave the way for other females entering the trade,” she said.

“I want to continue growing alongside the industry and keep developing my skills as technology evolves. I also hope to encourage more young women to back themselves and pursue careers in trades because it is such a rewarding career.”

The Capricorn Overall Australian Rising Stars Award will be announced on 2 October 2026.

About the Capricorn Rising Stars Awards 

Now in their ninth year, the Capricorn Rising Stars Awards recognise outstanding automotive apprentices across Australia and New Zealand. In 2026, Capricorn is recognising Australian Regional Winners alongside Overall Australian and New Zealand Rising Stars for the first time. The Awards are supported by premier sponsor Castrol, Repco, Workshop Whisperer, Repairify, The Automotive Technician and Blackwoods.

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 34,000 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!

Media Contact:
Niall Naghten | +61 (0)466 276 591 | media@capricorn.coop

Note to editors:
Brad Gannon, CEO, is available for interview. Case studies and vision also available.

Images:

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