Bakers rise to the challenge at regional competition

Apprentice bakers from throughout the Northern Territory will bake off in a bread-making competition at Charles Darwin University’s Palmerston campus tomorrow (24 September).

Budding bakers will knead silky dough, carefully proof yeast and wait patiently for their golden loaves, French sticks and fruit buns to rise as they vie for the title of Apprentice Excellence in Baking winner.

CDU Bakery Facilitator and Baking Association of Australia NT Administrator Robert Schwerdt said the event presented a fantastic opportunity for apprentice bakers to demonstrate their skill levels, pride in their work and dedication to their trade.

“Regional baking events such as this prepare our apprentices for bigger national and international competitions, where Territory bakers are very competitive,” Mr Schwerdt said.

Rustic and artisan breads, commonly found on trendy café-style menus, will be the focus of this year’s competition.

Aside from a final product that tastes and smells delicious, judges will be looking for impressive working practices, organisational skills, technique, and presentation.

The winner will be awarded $250 and will secure a place in the national titles.

CDU Palmerston campus also will host the NT Baking Show on Wednesday 25 September, which will bring professional bakers from throughout the NT to put their best products on show for the opportunity to be crowned the Bakery of the Year.

“There’s plenty of friendly rivalry, with entrants coming from as far as Nhulunbuy and Alice Springs to compete,” Mr Schwerdt said.

“Pies, pastries, breads and cakes will be judged on all the elements of a good bake, including symmetry, shape, crumb structure, aroma, volume and texture.”

The two events are held in partnership with the Baking Association of Australia.