Last week, the Bake Skills Baking Competition for 2023 wrapped up at Fine Food Australia in Sydney after the competing apprentices had spend two intense days preparing a range of bread items in the lead up to the announcement of the winner.

This year’s baking finalists were:

• Lauren Robin—Coles, Beaudesert, Vic
• Connor Beisler—Dungog Barrington Bakery, Dungog, NSW
• Georgia Brown—Woodend Sourdough, Woodend, Vic
• Jackson Kiely—Coles, Haynes, WA
• Rebecca Tracey—CJ’s Bakery, Christies Beach, SA

Rebecca Tracey from CJ’s Bakery in South Australia took out the award, claiming the title of Australia’s Best Baking Apprentice 2023. Rebecca was surprised but excited by her win.

“It was unexpected, but good,” she said.

“It’s been a good couple of days meeting new people—new young apprentices. We all get along quite well.”

Jackson Kiely from Coles Haynes in Western Australia took out second place.

“It was great. It was great competition!” he said.

“I’m thrilled to finish second, especially behind Rebecca. Rebecca and I have mostly hung out together over the past couple of days so it’s great to see one of us win. I’m very, very happy.”

Jackson also won the award for best gluten-free bread.

A big congratulations to all who participated!

Image: (L to R) Connor Beisler, Lauren Robin, Rebecca Tracey, Jackson Kiely, and Georgia Brown