The young guns of Australia’s hospitality industry, from the paddock, the cellar, the kitchen, front-of-house and everywhere in between, should be on alert as applications for the 2019 Hostplus Hospitality Scholarship, supported by Melbourne Food & Wine Festival close this week.
The scholarship, which is now in its sixth year, offers the next generation in Australian hospitality a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work around the world at three different internationally acclaimed businesses.
Hostplus, the national superannuation fund for the hospitality, tourism, recreation and sport industries, has supported the scholarship since it launched in 2014 and David Elia, Chief Executive Officer at Hostplus, said: “This scholarship offers a life-changing opportunity for young people across the breadth of the Australian hospitality industry. Hostplus is extremely proud to support this initiative that will create valuable connections and learning experiences.”
It is indeed a life-changing opportunity, with the winner offered the opportunity to work around the world at three different internationally acclaimed hospitality businesses. The international work experience is tailored to the winner’s specific career interests and the prize includes flights, accommodation and spending money.
On their return to Australia, the scholarship winner will be partnered with a local industry leader for a year-long mentorship to further their industry experience and make valuable connections in their chosen field.
Anthea Loucas Bosha, chief executive officer of Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, said: “Our hospitality industry continues to be shaped by influences from across Australia and the world, from building upon our nation’s rich migrant heritage, to pushing boundaries to create uniquely Australian food and drink experiences.
“This scholarship is an incredible ‘next step’ for one hospitality star to learn from global leaders and bring their insights back here to Australia.”
The 2018 scholarship winner Kay-Lene Tan, head pastry chef at Coda and Tonka is about to embark on her prize trip with work experience lined up at leading restaurants Atelier Crenn (San Francisco), Hiša Franko (Slovenia) and Geranium (Copenhagen).
This year’s judging panel comprises: Shane Delia, head chef and owner, Maha and Biggie Smalls; Gail Donovan, restaurateur, Donovans; Pat Nourse, creative director, Melbourne Food & Wine Festival; Raphael Rashid, founder and owner, Beatbox Kitchen, Taco Truck and All Day Donuts; and Fleur Studd, owner, Melbourne Coffee Merchants and co-founder, Market Lane Coffee.
Applications for the scholarship will close at 5pm AEST, Wednesday 15 May 2019. Applications involve completing a form on the scholarship website and are open to all Australian residents aged 22-35 and currently working in any area of expertise within the hospitality industry.