Matthew In Training

After recently undertaking a four-week block of training at TAFE, Team South Burnett Apprentice Chef Matthew McMurdy (*pictured above) is excited about returning next week for his second block.

It's a requirement of all kitchen apprentices in Queensland to successfully complete formal training in a Commercial Cookery course to become fully qualified chefs.

Matthew said, "Everything I've learnt so far reinforces the basic skills and knowledge I've gained on-the-job at the Bell Tower Restaurant, and also introduced me to new techniques".

"It's a real eye-opener - I get to work alongside other apprentice chefs from a diverse range of establishments, and learn from lecturers of many nationalities", he said.

During his second block, Matthew will learn about the preparation of poultry and game, seafood, meats, pastries, cakes and yeast goods.

Matthew believes the skills and knowledge he's gaining at TAFE will be invaluable when he competes with Team South Burnett at Adelaide's Lifestyle FOOD Channel Australian Regional Culinary Competition, in October.

The competition is the most prestigious of it's kind in Australia, and a panel of respected judges will closely scrutinise Team South Burnett's level of culinary technique and professionalism.

The competition's criteria states that each regional team is required to have at least one apprentice or trainee. Apart from the competitions main prizes, Matthew will be eligible for the additional category of 'Best Apprentice'.

*Photograph courtesy of Denise Keelen