The 20-year-old won this year's Dulux Accredited Apprentice of the Year award at a conference in Cairns on Friday.

Mr Pergolizzi said he was surprised by the win.

A third year apprentice, Mr Pergolizzi works for his family business, Proper Painting and Decorating, which has been in operation for more than 20 years.

"Having this award on my resume is a very good thing, it will take me further in the painting industry and maybe even help me start a business on my own."

He earlier this year won the Victorian WorldSills competition, a trade skills program that aims to raise the standards of vocational education and training.

Mr Pergolizzi said he enjoyed the challenges of painting and liked learning and developing new skills in all types of finishes.