Toshi run for the Apprentice of the Year (SA Training Awards) – OM

Toshi runs for the Apprentice of the Year (SA Training Awards)

We recently farewelled one of our graduating cookery apprentices who smashed his training with the aim to qualify early and continue his culinary journey within the Matthews Hotel Group.

Due to this commitment and his obvious skills, the Matthews Hotel Group have submitted a nomination for Toshi as part of the SA Training Awards . Presented by the South Australian Skills Commission, the South Australian Training Awards shine as the state’s most prestigious awards program for recognising excellence in vocational education and training (VET).

This is a small part of the submission ……..

I recently completed a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery through HITsa while undertaking my apprenticeship full-time at the Maylands Hotel—an award-winning venue that prides itself on quality produce, professional standards, and team culture. My journey into hospitality wasn’t planned. At the time, I was studying a Certificate II in Animal Studies and simply looking for casual work. When I saw a kitchenhand position advertised just ten minutes from home, I applied with the goal of earning a bit of extra income.

Since enrolling in my Certificate III in Commercial Cookery through HITsa, I’ve grown in confidence, professionalism, and skill. My training helped me develop a strong foundation across all core kitchen competencies, from prep to plating, with increasing responsibility during service. I’ve worked across every section, including pans, fryer, grill, larder, breakfast, and desserts. I’ve also taken the lead in running functions, where I oversee the full process—from preparation and timing to execution and final plating. These events have pushed me to plan ahead, manage time and people, and ensure every plate meets our venue’s high standards.

My training with HITsa has been a huge part of this journey. The quality of the training, combined with the real-world experience in a high-standard venue, has prepared me to take my next step with confidence. I’m proud to represent vocational training because it changed my life—and I know it can do the same for others.

We cannot wait to see if he takes out the top award which will be decided in August 2025