AEGIC and Grains Australia have announced the LA Judge Award will be postponed for 2026.

The announcement comes as AEGIC is integrated into Grains Australia and is winding up its operations at the Sydney premises.

In a statement released in late February Grains Australia chief executive officer Richard Simonaitis said with the closure of the Pilot Bakery facility where the LA Judge Award has traditionally been hosted they were now required to secure a new venue with the appropriate equipment and capability to deliver the competition at the standard the industry expects.

“This decision has not been taken lightly. The integration process, while strategically important for the future, has inevitably required significant organisational focus and has resulted in the loss of some core capability previously relied upon to deliver the event,” he said.

“At the same time, the practical realities of securing a suitable new venue and rebuilding the operational framework mean that time has simply not been on our side.

“Importantly, I feel this pause also presents an opportunity. We intend to use this period to regroup with you, the baking industry and reflect on how the LA Judge Award can continue to evolve ensuring it remains relevant to today’s baking sector and continues to inspire and attract our next generation of apprentices. The industry has changed over five decades, and it is appropriate that we consider how the competition might also adapt to meet contemporary needs while preserving its prestige and purpose.”

Mr Simonaitis said Grains Australia was committed to the LA Judge Award and to supporting excellence within the baking industry.

“Over the coming months we will reach out to determine the most effective model and venue for the competition’s future delivery,” he said.

“I appreciate that this news may be disappointing. However, our priority is to ensure that when the LA Judge Award returns it does so in a way that protects its legacy and strengthens its future.”