A First Nations employer from Far North Queensland has won a national title at the 2024 Australian Training Awards in Canberra.

The Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji Peoples Prescribed Body Corporate Aboriginal Corporation, based in Yarrabah, was named the 2024 Small Employer of the Year.

The organisation is a charity and not-for-profit that combines traditional knowledge with western science in its training model, resulting in the Small Employer of the Year Award.

It works with TAFE Queensland and other providers to offer accredited and non-accredited courses, including an Indigenous ranger traineeship program aimed at preserving local land and sea.

Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji executive officer Helen Tait said she was pleased to see their efforts recognised on a national stage.

"The training awards have been a very positive and enriching experience for our team," she said.

"We are grateful for the recognition and the support from our partners, which has helped our ranger team have a positive impact on our community and country."

The Australian Training Awards, established in 1994, acknowledge achievements in vocational education and training across Australia.

The national event followed the Queensland Training Awards held in September, where 14 winners from various regions were honoured in Brisbane.

Ten of these winners went on to represent Queensland at the Australian Training Awards.

TAFE Queensland teacher Miriam Davies also represented Queensland in the Excellence in Language, Literacy and Numeracy Practice category, which offered direct entry to the national awards.

Queensland Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, commended all finalists for their dedication and skill.

"Strong representation from Queensland at the Australian Training Awards shows the depth of our vocational education and training sector. From arboriculture to business, health, and hospitality, we are building a skilled workforce to serve our industries and economy," she said.

"All finalists should be proud of their journey to the Australian Training Awards.

"I congratulate Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji Peoples Prescribed Body Corporate Aboriginal Corporation on their award as a small employer that empowers local people.

"Reaching this level can create employment, business, and networking opportunities. Success here can raise profiles and inspire others to overcome challenges."