Fordwich local Clancy Lambkin has been selected as one of 17 finalists to compete in the Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) 2026 Apprentice of the Year state competition. Held at TAFE NSW Granville on 10 September 2026, the event evaluates technical knife skills, carcass breakdown precision, food safety compliance, and value-added product design among third-year apprentices enrolled in the Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher).
Clancy is currently completing his third year of vocational training at TAFE NSW Hamilton while working at Springhill Butchery in Singleton. Alongside his apprenticeship, Clancy co-founded Valandy Premium Lamb with his cousin Koby, supplying livestock directly to regional retail butchers across the Hunter.
National consumption data indicates that 92 per cent of Australian households purchase beef and 72 per cent purchase lamb annually, underscoring ongoing demand for skilled labour across red meat supply chains. Statewide TAFE NSW figures also show expanding workforce diversity within the sector, with 43 women currently enrolled in Certificate III Meat Processing apprenticeships.
Third-year butchery apprentice, Clancy Lambkin stated that pursuing a trade qualification connects directly with his family’s agricultural background.
“Farming has been in my family for four generations so becoming a butcher is very sentimental because I’m able to take our family business to the next level,” Clancy said.
“I grew up around my great grandfather and remember him cutting up his own meat on the farm, so it feels like a full circle moment. I love the social aspect of building a relationship with customers and working alongside a great team.”
Head Teacher of Meat and Allied Trades at TAFE NSW, Martin Paynter noted that modern butchery education blends traditional trade skills with value-added retail presentation.
“We’re seeing more women choosing careers in meat processing and retail butchery, particularly at TAFE NSW Granville,” Martin said.
“The industry has evolved beyond its traditional image, creating opportunities across butchery, retail, food preparation, customer service and marketing. Butchery is seen as an artisan trade which is attracting school leavers, career changers and parents alike.”
New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory State Manager at the Australian Meat Industry Council, Ian Hayes added that the competition highlights the critical role TAFE NSW plays in training skilled trade labour.
“It’s great to partner with TAFE NSW to host this prestigious competition that attracts the top butchery apprentices right across the state,” Ian said.
The winner of the 2026 AMIC NSW Apprentice of the Year will be formally announced at the AMIC NSW Industry Awards Gala on 26 September 2026.
IMAGE | Singleton butchery apprentice Clancy Lambkin selected for state AMIC finals
