They say 'practice makes perfect' and for 21 Year 11 and 12 students that's what the Salute to Excellence Skills Test Day was all about.
The students travelled from across Queensland to compete across three industry categories – Cookery, Food and Beverage, and Tourism.
Their skills where put to the test through a series of practical tasks, written questionnaires and an interview.
QTIC Workforce Development Manager Kathryn Moody said Skills Test Day is chance for the students to showcase their knowledge and skills.
"It also gives them a chance to meet other students with the same interests and aspirations, as well as talk to industry professionals doing the jobs they aspire to," she said.
"The Salute to Excellence program, as a whole, is about supporting Queensland high school students as they develop the skills needed to work and thrive in the state’s tourism industry."
Maroochydore State High School Year 12 student Matthew Ring said he entered Salute to Excellence Food & Beverage category in order to make the most of the learning opportunity and to distinguish himself from his peers when it came to getting a job.
"I love being a part of hospitality industry – it's what I've always enjoyed since I was a little kid," he said.
"I love being around good food and good people and this is a great experience to learn from and interact with industry professionals."
Matthew said Skills Test Day taught him the importance of planning and good communication.
The Salute to Excellence Awards dinner and presentation evening will be held on Monday 30 July 2018.
Skills Test Day judges were:
The Star Gold Coast Executive Chef Dustin Osuch – Cookery
Hospitality Staffing Soultions Chef Josh Lawson – Cookery
Hilton Hotel Brisbane Director of Human Resources Adrienne Putelli – Food and Beverage
Rydges South Bank Human Resources Manage Pamela Lester – Food and Beverage
Dreamworld Learning and Development Manager Karen Thornburn – Tourism
Mountain Wine Tours Managing Director Karen Hellsten – Tourism
The QTIC Salute to Excellence Awards is proudly supported by:
Queensland Government
The Star Gold Coast
Tourism and Events Queensland
TAFE Queensland
Novotel South Brisbane
Black & White Cabs
Qantas
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Get Wet Surf School
Ocean Rafting
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
PHOTO: Ellie Priest, Jestine Llewellyn and Jade Smith prepare for the cookery practical task.
