A spotlight is on staff at Gosford City Council as two staff members were announced as winners in their vocational categories, with one excelling as the Central Coast Trainee of the Year at the Central Coast Apprentice and Trainee of the Year Awards last Thursday 9 July.

Jessica Hughes, 20, from Finance at Gosford City Council had initially won her category of Certificate Three in Business; however she also picked up the 2009 Central Coast Trainee of the Year award for her outstanding work.

In accepting her award, Jessica said she was grateful for all the encouragement and opportunity that her colleagues at Gosford City Council have given her.

"Everyone has been so supportive in helping me achieve my goals.

"I'm really looking forward to graduating and working full time with my qualifications", added Miss Hughes.

Justin Wright, 21, from Council's Customer Service unit, was the Central Coast regional winner of the Telecommunications Trainee of the Year, with his Certificate Three in Customer Contact.

Justin was also thankful for the encouraging environment that Council has given him.

"It's great that I am able to study whilst getting valuable on-the-job training with Council", said Justin.

Mayor of Gosford City, Clr Chris Holstein believes that both Jessica and Justin's awards are a testament to Council's commitment to on-going training for its staff members.

"Council is always looking to provide a better service. When staff improve in their jobs, an even higher standard of service is achieved.

"With an ageing workforce upon us, a sound investment in developing the skills of our youth is the best way to go", added Clr Holstein.

Jessica will now represent the Central Coast in the next stage of the NSW Training Awards, which will be announced in September at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.