Celebrating one years' service to business and the wider community has not prevented the Hornsby Chamber from looking for the stars of tomorrow, to help it reach the next 100 years service.
So with an eye to the future, the Chamber, under the banner of the Hills Schools Industry Partnership's Adopt a School Program, passed the catering for their May Luncheon into the capable hands of the Year 12 Hospitality students from St Leos College, Wahroonga.
These students, under the guiding hand of Rob Mooney (the owner/chef of Simply Functional Catering), were given the opportunity to brainstorm the menu selections, prepare and cook for the function. Students practiced at the school and then the day before the luncheon Rob held a "
MasterChef" style cook-off for his team of aspiring chefs to challenge their creativity and test their readiness for the big day.
On the day of the luncheon the Asquith Golf Club kitchen was abuzz with enthusiastic students, teachers and Rob Mooney's always encouraging banter. The dishes flowed like clockwork into the packed dining room, only interrupted by a motivating and amusing presentation delievered by former Socceroo Captain Paul Wade and the appreciative murmurings of the fifty assembled guests. Amongst the guests from across the Hornsby business and education community, was a trifecta of local politicians, including the Honourable Phillip Ruddock - Federal Member of Berowra, Judy Hopgood -State Member for Hornsby and Nick Berman - Mayor of Hornsby.
By placing their luncheon in the hands of these students, the Chamber gave them a chance to be tested under "real" work conditions. These students delivered a quality product to discerning customers within a tight deadline. In other words, they displayed the skills that employers are looking for and produced the results that customers demand.
The Hills Schools Industry Partnership is always looking for opportunities to join with businesses and community organisations to give students such as those from St Leos a chance to showcase their skills and help shape our future workforce.
For further information about careers events and opportunities for our young people, contact Hills Schools Industry Partnership on 9639 7999 or
info@HillsSIP.com.au.