Students clinch seven awards at Geelong Baking Show

Kangan Institute baking students and apprentices have won seven awards at the 2019 Geelong Baking Show.

Held on 10 July, the state competition was presented by Baking Association of Australia (Victoria) and featured entries from industry participants, apprentices and students.

Kangan Institute’s winners include:

• Anthony Cruz of Melton South – First place in ‘Vanilla Slices’, ‘Fruit Flan’ and ‘Custard Tarts’ categories
• Janait Solafa of Craigieburn – First place in ‘Gateau’ category
• Tamam Hanon of Glenroy –Second place in ‘Gateau’ category
• Kym Rhphel of Lalor – Second place in ‘White Vienna’ and third place in ‘White French Stick’ categories

With three awards under his belt, Anthony Cruz’s success reflected his experience and passion for the trade.

“I’d been doing this for a long time and I started my apprenticeship last year because I wanted to get a TAFE certificate and expand my options,” he said.

“I love the thrill of baking, especially the science behind it. There’s always something new to learn. I also love creating and using my imagination.”

Anthony credited his achievements to hard work and great support.

“I joined the competition at short notice and I didn’t expect to win. It took two days to prepare and it involved a lot of practice,” he said.

Anthony Cruz with his first place creations

“I’d like to thank my Kangan Institute teacher Ruwan Colombage and also my site manager and my boss at LaManna for supporting me and encouraging me to take on an apprenticeship.”

Janait Solafa, who won first place for gateau said the award was a confidence boost.

“Achieving this award means a lot to me and I feel so proud of myself,” she said.

“The course is the best thing I’ve done in my life. I’m now a lot more confident in cake making and I’m achieving my biggest dream of becoming a cake maker.

Janait Solafa with her first place gateau

“I’d like to thank my family for their support. I’d also like to thank my teacher Fredrick Money and all the staff at Kangan Institute, including Sonya Sutton, Ruwan Colombage and Matthew Miles – they are wonderful.”

Kangan Institute CEO Phill Murphy said the students’ achievements highlighted their proficiency in the trade.

“Well done to our award winning students and apprentices, as well as the teachers who’ve guided them through their journey,” he said.

“This competition was a fantastic opportunity for students and apprentices to apply what they’ve learnt at TAFE. Their outstanding results clearly demonstrate their skills and expertise in the craft.”