Renmark mature-aged apprentice Taran Donovan has been named the South Australia/Northern Territory Regional Winner in the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.

The 30-year-old is completing a Certificate III in Automotive Body Refinishing Technology through MTA SA while undertaking his apprenticeship at JVS Bodyworks. As a Regional Winner, he receives $3,000 cash and will now be considered for the Overall Australian Rising Star Award.

Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer Brad Gannon said Taran Donovan’s achievement demonstrated the important contribution mature-aged apprentices make to the automotive industry.

"Taran's story is a great reminder that there is no single pathway into the automotive industry. His success shows what can be achieved when someone is prepared to back themselves and commit to learning a new trade.

"It's fantastic to see apprentices like Taran thriving in regional communities and helping strengthen the industry's future workforce."

JVS Bodyworks Director Tracey Gordon said Taran Donovan had become an important part of the business.

“As a mature-aged apprentice, he brings determination, professionalism and a strong desire to continually improve. He embraces every opportunity to learn, consistently delivers work to an exceptional standard and has become an incredibly valuable member of our team.”

Taran Donovan, who won the 2026 MTA Bob Goldsworthy Award earlier this year, said he wanted to continue building his skills and supporting future apprentices.

“What excites me most is how quickly the industry is evolving and the opportunities that creates to learn new products, processes and technologies,” he said.

“I want to continue developing my skills and eventually help mentor the next generation of apprentices entering the industry.”

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 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!

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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