The Baking Association of Australia’s (BAA) popular Excellence in Baking competition is returning once again in 2026.

The initial dates for the state rounds have been announced, with the Queensland state round kicking off the competition when it takes place on October 22, 2025 at the Qld TAFE Southbank campus.

Tasmanian apprentices will be second off the mark with the Tasmanian state round taking place on November 21 at TAS TAFE Hobart campus. The South Australian competition will be held over two days, with the bread round being held on November 25 and the pastry round on November 26.

New South Wales will round out the initial rounds when it’s held on November 26 at TAFE NSW Hamilton Campus.

The Excellence in Baking finals will be held at the BAA’s Baking Industry Trade Show in 2026.

Earlier this year Lewis Combes from Gumnut Patisserie and Jonathan Yates from Toodyay Bakery successfully claimed the national titles.

BAA executive director Tony Smith said it had been a great competition.

“They all worked so well. They push themselves hard, which is great, and we do everything we can to assist them along the way.

“The plan is they will now form part of Team Australia for the 2026 ANZBake competition, and will travel to New Zealand to compete.”

Further information about the Excellence in Baking competition, as well as entry forms and criteria, can all be found on the BAA website.