For the past decade Andy Le has dedicated himself to carving out a name for his business – Four Seasons Patisserie & Bakery. Countless awards later and after being inducted into The Official Great Aussie Pie Competition Hall of Fame twice, it can honestly be said he’s now setting the benchmark in the pie industry. Baking Business magazine caught up with Andy recently to talk about his journey so far.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

From the outset of my professional baking career, my dream has been to become a national pie champion.

Achieving this goal has required relentless self-motivation, continuous learning, and a steadfast commitment to perfection. I have faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but each experience has been a valuable lesson in resilience and dedication.

Even after reaching my goal and earning the title of national pie champion, I have remained grounded and focused. I believe in maintaining humility and using my success as a platform to drive further growth and improvement. Each accomplishment is a stepping stone, motivating me to work with even greater passion and commitment.

I hope that my journey can serve as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that with perseverance and dedication, it is possible to achieve one’s dreams.

Andy Le with some of his trophies

You’ve had some major milestones recently. Can you tell us about your career?

My career in the pie industry began with my participation in the Great Aussie Pie Competition in 2011. Since then, I have achieved notable success, including:

• 2013: Awarded Australia’s Best Apple Pie.
• 2015: Secured the top prize at the National Pie Competition for Plain Mince Pie and Australia’s Best Apple Pie.
• 2016 and 2017: Achieved runner-up positions for both Plain Mince Pie and Apple Pie.
• 2018: Won the top prize again for Plain Chunky Beef Pie.
• 2020: Earned 12 gold awards from 12 entries, including Australia’s Greatest Gourmet Pie for Seafood Pies and Australia’s Best Apple Pie.
• 2021: Received the Tom Lindsay Pepper Steak Pie Award.
• 2022: Achieved 10 gold awards from 12 entries, was runner-up for Plain Mince Pie, and was inducted into the official Great Aussie Pie Hall of Fame. This honour was shared with only two other bakeries: Myself – Four Seasons Bakery in WA, Pinjarra Bakery in WA and Rolling Pin Pie and Cakes in Victoria.
• 2023: I took a hiatus from the competition due to family commitments.
• 2024: Won eight gold awards from 10 entries, was runner-up for Chunky Beef Pie, and secured Australia’s Best Gourmet Pork Pie and Australia’s Best Apple Pie for the fifth time.

I am particularly honored to be inducted into the official Great Aussie Pie Hall of Fame for the second time.  It’s a distinction that, to my knowledge, no other individual has achieved twice.

Without giving away any secrets, what do you think the secret to a great pie is?

The key to crafting an exceptional pie lies in several crucial factors.

Quality ingredients: Always use the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. The flavour and texture of the pie are directly influenced by the quality of its components.

Appropriate equipment: Utilising the right equipment is essential. Investing in high-quality tools and machinery enhances the overall consistency and excellence of the final product.

Correct oven temperature: Baking at the correct temperature is critical. Precise temperature control ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture and flavour.

By focusing on these elements, you can create pies that stand out for their superior taste and quality.

Andy out the front of Four Seasons Patisserie and Bakery

What’s up next for you?

My primary goal is to continue supporting and contributing to the pie industry.

I have a deep appreciation for The Official Great Aussie Pie Competition, not only as a platform to showcase my work but also as an opportunity to connect with judges and fellow competitors. Engaging with this vibrant community allows me to share experiences, exchange insights, and foster the growth of the industry as a whole. I am committed to advancing the craft, promoting excellence, and building lasting relationships within the industry.