TAFE NSW Hamilton retail baking student, Tristan Beisler, has won the prestigious title of ‘Baking Apprentice of the Year’ at the LA Judge baking competition in Sydney.

Tristan, who is ‘incredibly chuffed’ to receive the award, works at Barrington Bakery in Dungog, which is run by his father, who owns a number of baking enterprises. This year’s LA Judge theme was ‘Your Business’, so as part of his efforts Tristan created a quasi bakery shopfront crafted inspired by the Barrington Bakery bread bag logo and design.

Tristan represented NSW in the annual national event, against competitors from other states and New Zealand. His prize is an all-expenses-paid trip to Belgium for a week of training with LA Judge baking sponsor Puratos.

“I cannot believe it. I’m incredibly humbled and thankful for all the support I’ve received,” Tristan said.

“It was great to see and meet industry people from all walks of life, who came together to recognise the award.

“I’m super excited about spending time with Puratos overseas, seeing their sourdough library and research facilities.

“People who have done that in previous years told me about how amazing the experience is.”

Tristan’s TAFE NSW Hamilton baking teacher Dean Tilden said Tristan was a humble young man who has worked extremely hard and deserved the win.

“It is wonderful to see Tristan follow in the Beisler family’s footsteps with his high-quality baking skills and commitment to industry excellence,” Dean said.

“When the win was announced his dad came up on stage straight away and gave him a hug.

“It was beautiful to see such family pride.”

Tristan’s dad Simon said, “I’m the proudest dad in Australia.”