Victorian apprentice technician Jaeden Matteo D'Aloia has been named the Victoria/Tasmania Regional Winner in the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.
Jaeden, originally from Eltham, is completing his apprenticeship at Technique Automotive, a specialist European vehicle workshop in Melbourne’s north-east. He 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 congratulated Jaeden on the achievement.
"Jaeden has already shown the sort of commitment that sets outstanding apprentices apart. Balancing his apprenticeship with university studies while continuing to develop his technical skills speaks volumes about his work ethic and ambition.
"The industry is becoming more and more technical each year, and it needs people who are prepared to keep learning throughout their careers, and Jaeden is a great example of that."
Technique Automotive owner Alex Hicks said Jaeden had exceeded expectations from the moment he joined the business.
“We've been able to trust him with increasingly complex work because of his ability to problem solve, his attention to detail and the pride he takes in every job. He displays qualities that can be difficult to find even in qualified technicians.”
Alongside his apprenticeship, Jaeden is undertaking a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Property and Real Estate at Deakin University.
“What I love most about the industry is that there's always something new to learn,” Jaeden said.
“The technology is constantly evolving and every day presents a new challenge. I want to become a well-rounded technician who can adapt alongside the industry and continue developing my skills throughout my 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 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.
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