VET Kitchen Operations Culinary Competition - FIRST PLACE

By Glenn Booth (Hospitality Teacher)

Last Thursday, six  BHCS VET Kitchen Operations students had an amazing opportunity to participate in the Outer Eastern Trade Training Alliance Inter School Culinary Competition. 

Using a maryland cut of chicken, students were to produce three identical main course dishes (in 1.5 hours), one for the judges, one for the display and one to share with other contestants. Following this they needed to use ruby chocolate in their three identical desserts (30 mins) with the addition of an indigenous Australian native ingredient (strawberry gum). 

One of our teams consisted of Alex P, Savanna C and Cooper G. This team was awarded many points for the way that they worked together and their organisation skills. They also received feedback that their main course dish was the best dish of the whole competition, with the professional judges commenting that their Nasi Lemak would be fine to be put on their menu at their restaurant which was extremely high praise. 

Our other team consisting of Cara-Jane M, Mia S and Tash J were extremely consistent throughout the whole event and produced two very nice dishes. This team won the overall competition by just two points over a team from Aquinas College with the other BHCS team getting third place. 

The top three teams were very close with only three points separating first and third places. Overall the judges and teachers were very impressed with the effort shown by the students, the quality of the food and techniques shown and the comradery demonstrated between the schools involved. 

Professional judges for the event were Michelle from Abruzzo Lab and Nicholas from Unox Ovens who gave each contestant a participation pack. The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery supplied the quality ruby chocolate for the dessert competition as well as a one kilogram block of chocolate each for the winning team. 

The Outer Eastern Local Learning and Employment Network provided trophies and medallions for the winners and each participant with an apron and cap. The MVP of the event Lily (Aquinas) also received a night out at Maha Restaurant, a day working alongside a master chocolatier at the chocolaterie and a premium Unox backpack.

It was a great day for me to see the students really come alive and enjoy the practical experience and challenge in the kitchen, it really makes teaching rewarding to have them put their learning into practice and put their knowledge and skills on display.

Our BHCS students did an amazing job and represented the school very well!

Congratulations to all students involved, we are so proud of you!