Local students benefit from The Nationals Conference in Carnarvon
Author: Colin Holt
Published on: 02-April-2011
Gascoyne hospitality students will benefit from The Nationals WA’s State Conference to be held in Carnarvon today, with the event forming part of their course assessment.
Students from the Durack Institute of Technology and Carnarvon Senior High School will help prepare for the event and staff the Conference Dinner, giving them the opportunity to learn from some of the State’s finest chefs.
The Nationals WA State President, Colin Holt said this was a great opportunity for local students and community groups to showcase the best of the Gascoyne.
“The Nationals’ State Conference is a big event, involving a large breakfast and formal seated dinner, so it’s a unique chance for Gascoyne students and community groups to work on a major catering event and see how these functions come together.
“We have been delighted by the strong involvement from the local Carnarvon community.”
Lexie Ward from the Durack Institute of Technology said her students were excited about the opportunity to help out with this major event.
“The Durack Institute of Technology has a good relationship with the Gwoonwardu Mia Gascoyne Heritage and Cultural Centre where the events will take place, as the centre gives students the chance to pick up practical skills.”
Darcy Hodgkinson, Operations Manager of Panorama Catering by Don Hancey caterers for the Conferencesaid his team enjoy learning more about the produce the Gascoyne region has to offer.
“We see this as a way to form a relationship with the farmers who produce such a diverse range of quality food in the region, while giving interested students an insight into the hospitality industry.
“Don Hancey is recognised as one of Western Australia’s most dynamic and innovative chefs and it’s a great boost for students to be able to see him in action, hopefully encouraging them to pursue a career in the industry.
“The Gascoyne is a hidden gem for premium fruit and vegetables and we are keen to promote what the region offers.”
Other community groups involved in the event include the Desert Diamonds, a group aimed at raising funds for a medical rescue chopper in the Gascoyne, and the Gascoyne Dash, a group that manages one of Australia’s biggest off-road race events.
