Butchery Apprentices Excel at AMIC Victorian Awards
William Angliss Institute butchery apprentice Selena Licastro was named the 2025 Victorinox AMIC Victorian Apprentice of the Year, with fellow apprentice Jim McCaffrey from Ashburton Meats placing as Runner Up at the state competition hosted by the Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC).
Held annually for over 40 years, the AMIC Apprentice of the Year Competition showcases the best emerging talent in the meat industry
Selena, currently completing her Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher) competed against 14 other apprentices from across Victoria. Judges were impressed by her technical skills, creativity and calm under pressure. “I am very grateful to receive this recognition and to experience the competition,” said Selena.
Participants were assessed on their ability to break down a lamb and pork barrel into specific cuts. For the Mystery Box Challenge, Selena used a beef knuckle and whole chicken to create eighteen products, including meatloaf and marinated chicken wingettes.
They were also tasked with developing value-added products using secondary cuts to create ready-to-cook meals with various flavour enhancements. Selena added this year’s mystery ingredient of spinach to create sausage rolls and rolled chicken breast with spinach and herb dressing adding “colour, texture and a simple way of adding value.”
“Going into the competition, I was nervous but confident at the same time,” Selena shared. I just stayed calm and gave it my best shot. I’m proud of myself for having the confidence to give it a go.”
Training providers represented included William Angliss Institute, South West TAFE, FGM Consultants and TQMS.
Training, Talent and Passion for the Craft
Selena’s butchery journey began at Nino’s and Joe’s Meats, where she was inspired by the professionalism of her colleagues. “I would never look back, they have all been so helpful,” she said.
She credits the hands-on training at William Angliss Institute to her professional growth. “The highlight of my training was pushing forward with the apprenticeship and gaining knowledge,” she said. “My advice to those thinking about entering butchery competitions is to give it a go and give it your best shot. Challenge yourself, it’s all valuable experience.”
Selena also acknowledged her trainer, Angliss Meat Processing teacher Russell Carroll, for encouraging her to step outside her comfort zone.
“Russell brought the competition to my attention and taught me the importance of confidence and trying my best, “she said.
Russell spoke highly of her dedication and potential. “Selena consistently demonstrates a passion for her craft that sets her apart,” he said. “She approaches her apprenticeship with a unique combination of eagerness to learn and an unwavering commitment to perfection in her practical work. She is always ahead in her coursework and constantly seeking to deepen her understanding of the meat industry.
“As Selena’s teacher I was extremely proud of her efforts. She has an air of confidence in what she does, and it was this quality that prompted me to encourage her to enter the Apprentice of the Year competition. I was confident that she would do well, and I was over the moon when she won,” added Russell.
At the recent William Angliss Institute Scholarship Ceremony, Selena also received the Harper’s Butchery Award, which supports students’ skills development, travel and study-related resources.
“I was stunned and extremely grateful,” Selena said. “The funds helped me purchase new knives which will enable me to create quality cuts of meat to display in the shop window. I also bought ingredients to experiment with new ideas as I am working towards becoming as creative and unique with my products as possible.”
Recognising Talent and Commitment
AMIC State Manager for Vic/Tas, Andrew Meli, acknowledged the ongoing support of William Angliss Institute in helping apprentices thrive.
“These competitions give apprentices the chance to gain valuable experience, build industry connections and grow their skills. The aim is to highlight the talent of apprentices within the meat industry,” he said.
As William Angliss Institute celebrates its 85th anniversary in 2025, Selena and Jim’s success reflect the Institute’s legacy as Australia’s first trade college specialising in butchery, and its continued leadership in trades training.
For more information on Angliss apprenticeships, visit Apprenticeships & Traineeships, email enquiry@angliss.edu.au or call +613 8595 5334 for more information.
