Cookery is thrilling and exhilarating

“Cookery is never dull and does not have to be a cook-by-numbers situation. It is intuitive and creative and the fast paced nature of kitchens is thrilling and exhilarating”, shares Beth as we catch up with her to chat about her time at The Gordon."

Beth has been working in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years. While self-taught, she decided to come to The Gordon to gain a formal qualification in cookery; Certificate III in Cookery.

“I was looking to learn from industry professionals and learn correct techniques across a broad range of cookery areas to add to my already acquired skills - The Gordon offered exactly what I wanted to learn!

“I loved the range of areas covered and the practical classes challenged me in areas I had no previous experience, introducing me to techniques that I didn’t think I was interested in. It gave me the confidence to try new things and meet incredible people who offered me opportunities I had never previously considered.”

While her studies gave her the opportunity to hone her skills and further her knowledge, Beth is a successful entrepreneur, having established a small catering business with her husband. 

“At Smallholding, we incorporate gardening and cooking. Our business provides catering, baked goods, picnic hampers and focuses on sustainable food practices, food waste, homegrown and locally farmed produce. We also provide a weekly online lunch order delivery to a local primary school to provide healthy school lunches to children.

“Responding to the seasonality of food, what is available to cook with and prepare, and how diners’ tastes and presences change over the year and how trends evolve is both exciting and rewarding. It’s so nice to see people delighting in food you have cared to cook for them, and being a part of special occasions, celebrations and sharing what you create.”

An strong advocate of The Gordon, Beth encourages others to follow their study goals.

“The basic skills and training that you will receive is the least of what you will gain by furthering your education at The Gordon. You will meet inspiring teachers, passionate and interesting students and be exposed to so many opportunities within the industry. It can seem daunting to commit to a stretch of time to devote purely to study, but the time spent learning, cooking and participating in this environment is so worthwhile. The skills and confidence I gained has inspired me to take my qualifications in many different directions now, and that is so exciting!”

Study Cookery at The Gordon and listen as Beth and Leonie Mills, renowned chef and Commerical Food and Hospitality Manager at The Gordon, catch up.