Tweed Heads Chef, Melking, is passionate about his job at Southern Cross Care.
This passion, combined with the support of his managers and ETC Training Advisor, allowed him to make the impressive transition from Apprentice Chef to Manager!
ETC offers fun and flexible training, so when Melking began showing interest in managerial level tasks, his Commercial Cooking Training Advisor Seb was able weave that into his learning and help him on his journey.
COVID has certainly changed the landscape of the Hospitality industry, making it harder for businesses to not only find, but keep Chefs.
So, when the Tweed Heads Residential Care home saw the leadership potential in their Apprentice Chef, they gave him the opportunity of a lifetime.
“We made the decision to promote Melking because he was so loved here at the site, not only with the staff from Southern Cross Care, but also the residents,” said Qld State Manager Brett Fleischer from Catering Industries (Southern Cross Care).
Growing up, Melking loved to eat, so he started cooking everything and anything at home. As he got older, this love of food became a passion for cooking.
“When I first started with Southern Cross, I just needed a part-time job to bring some money in. But then a year later, I was offered an Apprenticeship which I took, and four years down the track, I’m a qualified Chef,” Melking said.
While completing his Certificate III in Commercial Cookery through ETC (RTO 6998), Melking’s Training Advisor, Seb, helped him develop a slew of important skills.
They worked together to complete his Commercial Cookery units, but when Melking exceeded expectations, they began discussing other things directly related to his role.
“We talked about managerial level things like food/menu costings or making rosters for example, which he said he found very beneficial,” Seb said.
“I think having these conversations and learning about things relating directly to his role, has helped him slide into this leadership position.”
“At ETC we offer flexible training closely aligned with industry to provide practical learning for all students. It is specially designed to provide students with the skills and confidence to excel in their chosen field.”
Melking’s favourite thing about his job is hearing feedback from his residents.
“Hearing that the residents love the meal that I’ve cooked for them, it really makes the hard work pay off and is the best part of my job,” said Melking.
Seb said that Chefs like Melking are rare.
“He has a kind and caring nature, and he cares a lot about not only of his customers, but also his colleagues.”
“He’s a role model already and I hope he’s able to pass on his skills to others throughout his career.”
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