Preparations are underway for the LA Judge Award 2025.

Expressions of interest for judges, sponsors and entrants are being called for the popular three day competition. Held at the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC) in Sydney, the competition is a mixture of demonstrating practical skills, technical knowledge and communication skills.

Open to entrants aged 25-and-under, one entrant per state is allowed. The overall winner will receive an all expenses paid trip to Belgium as part of the prize, where they visit the Puratos headquarters and train with some of the world’s best technical experts.

2024 LA Judge winner Imogen Fearon described the experience as mind-blowing.

“[It’s] filled with theory, presentation and practical components. Run over three days, there are a total of eight theory papers ranging from ingredient functions down to the milling process of flour. There are two presentations: one one yourself and the other on a relevant baking industry topic chosen by the judges,” she said.

“The practical component was a day of baking different types of bread and designing an Olympic-themed bread plaque.

Established in 1967 by the Associated Bread Manufacturers of Australia and New Zealand (ABMANZ), the LA Judge Award – named for Les Judge – was created to promote the excellence and celebrate skills of young baking apprentices.

Further information about the LA Judge Award, as well as the expression of interest form, can be found on the AEGIC website.