The countdown is on for a TAFE Gippsland apprentice chef, who has been busy prepping for the culinary trip of a lifetime next month.
Cookery apprentice Jess Fraser has been cooking her heart out over the past month together her Victorian Young Chef counterparts, fundraising for their upcoming trip to Wales for the 2026 WorldChefs Congress. Here they’ll join 1000 chefs from 110 countries exploring the theme Pasture, Passion, Plate – celebrating the journey of food from its origins to the final dish and highlights how food connects us all.
Community support fuels success
Hosting two fundraising dinners in the past month – one at Holmesglen Institute and one at TAFE Gippsland’s Waratah Training Restaurant – this up-and-coming culinary crew have certainly had their work cut out for them.
Culinary trainer and Young Chefs mentor Kellie Smith said the support they’ve received has been overwhelming.
“A sincere thank you to all our sponsors, businesses who donated auction items, customers and supporters for backing us and believing in what we’re building and we’re incredibly appreciative to have you behind us on this journey,” Kellie said.
“We did it! We raised over $30,000 to send these talented young chefs and others from around Australia to Wales. They have worked so hard for the last 12 months and I am so proud of them and grateful to be their mentor.”
The Waratah Training Restaurant event saw a strong turnout, with guests treated to an indulgent five-course menu showcasing fresh Gippsland produce.
“The team really pulled together to create a fabulous fine dining experience,” Kellie said.
“From canapés and fresh seafood entrées to a roast saddle of lamb main and decadent desserts, it was a true celebration of local produce. Guests also enjoyed bidding on a fantastic range of auction items—from dining vouchers and local wines to kitchen knives and appliances. It was a great night.”
L-R: Culinary trainer Kellie Smith with Young Chefs Patrick Garcia , Lucas Robertson, Jessica Fraser, Chris Milligan and Bodhi.
Passion, persistence and opportunity
For first-year apprentice chef Jess Fraser, the past year has been a balancing act of work, study and fundraising.
Currently working at Store Sixty-One in Traralgon while completing her apprenticeship at TAFE Gippsland, Jess has embraced every opportunity that’s come her way.
“I’ve grown up around the industry and have been lucky enough to have Kellie as not only my mum but also my TAFE teacher and mentor,” Jess said.
“My love for cooking and competition go hand in hand, and I’m so grateful for her guidance—she’s pushed me to go above and beyond. I’m so excited for the WorldChefs Congress experience and whatever comes after that.”
Jess in the kitchen with fellow Young Chef, Gemma.
Want to study cookery at TAFE Gippsland?
Visit our website for more information about our Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (Apprenticeship) to find out more about how you can add some flavour to your career.