TAFE NSW commercial cookery student Jordan Frost from Merimbula has just returned from a career experience of a lifetime, joining 31 other finalists from around Australia for a four-day cooking showcase in the Proud To Be A Chef program.
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Each finalist enjoyed an all-expenses-paid trip to Melbourne to participate in the long-standing annual event, where three industry mentors guided them through a culinary showcase and challenged them to create their own special dish in a bid to win a $7500 scholarship as main prize.
Mr Frost may not have won the main prize, but as a finalist he received tutelage over the four day program from food industry mentors – renowned pasty chef Christy Tania, leading food service and global events expert Peter Wright and multiple restaurant owner and celebrated chef Scott Pickett.
Mr Frost graduated from a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at TAFE NSW Bega in December.
He splits his working year across Merimbula RSL Club in the warmer months, and in winter the Eiger Chalet and White Spyder Bar and Restaurant at Perisher. He said being a finalist in the Proud to be a Chef program thrilled him.
“My time in Melbourne was inspiring, and it has motivated me to do more. It’s been a real eye opener of an opportunity. There were so many passionate people I met through the program and the way they talk about food makes you fall further in love with it and the industry,” he said.
“Having the opportunity to be involved in Proud to be a Chef introduced me to really talented participants working in extraordinary places and the mentors are fascinating; the amount of knowledge they fed us is amazing. It’s been such a learning curve.”
TAFE NSW Regional general manager Kerry Penton said the organisation has produced thousands of highly skilled chefs and bakers over the years.
“That two TAFE NSW students won a finalist position in this reputable national program speaks volumes of the talent of our students and the teaching excellence we provide,” Ms Penton said.
“Our commercial cookery courses provide a comprehensive learning experience - from twisting pasta to patisserie techniques to mastering hospitality operations. Students gain a huge range of skills and are consistently successful in big events like this one and in securing highly sought-after chef positions.
“As Australia’s largest education provider, TAFE NSW has an excellent reputation across the state for turning out well-qualified, passionate industry professionals. I congratulate Irene on her recognition as such.”