Apprentice chefs in the Clarence Valley will benefit from kitchen equipment upgrades thanks to an $88,556 investment in state-of-the-art commercial cookery ovens at TAFE NSW Grafton by the Nationals in the NSW Government.

The upgraded facilities are part of the NSW Government’s $100 million, state-wide upgrades, asset renewal, and maintenance at 126 TAFE NSW campuses. 29

Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis said the installation of ten new commercial-grade ovens enhances access to cutting-edge, industry-led training to deliver a pipeline of skilled chefs in the Clarence Valley region. 

Chris is pictured with local TAFE Hospitality Teacher, Bernadette Ryan (taken before mask rules come into effect). File photo

“The tourism and food services industry contributes up to 16 per cent of wages, jobs and economic output in the Clarence Valley. These top-of-the-range ovens help apprentices gain the skills needed to boost an engine of growth industry that will play a key role in supporting the region’s economy post-COVID,” Mr Gulaptis said.  

“The NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the state-wide network of TAFE NSW campuses is key to helping students get jobs and supporting the NSW economy.” 

TAFE NSW Head of Skills for Tourism and Experiences Service Cheryl Ballinger said the upgrades were a win for local students and employers in the Clarence Valley. 

“The equipment enables apprentices and students to undertake realistic hands-on practise of all core skills areas, from stocks to desserts, in a modern training environment that meets industry standards,” Ms Ballinger said. 

“This investment is a boost for our local hospitality industry, assisting students to learn and work locally and will equip the next generation of chefs with the commercial-grade tools they need to hit the ground running.”