Applications for the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (MFWF) and Hostplus Hospitality Scholarship are open until 15 May.
Now in its fifth year, the nationwide scholarship offers the next generation of Australian hospitality workers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work across three different countries in internationally-acclaimed hospitality businesses. Upon their return to Australia, the scholarship winner will be partnered with a local industry leader for a year-long partnership.
Fleur Studd of Market Lane Coffee in Melbourne is on the judging panel for the Hostplus Hospitality Scholarship. She says her number one tip for young people looking to break into the hospitality industry, is hard work.
“Work hard, and find people to work with who inspire you, have values that align with yours and motivate you,” she says.
“Be prepared to ‘do your time’ and aim for mastery at what ever job you are given. Take advantage of free education seminars and look outside your field for other opportunities to develop.”
Fleur says for example, if you work in coffee, it doesn’t mean you should confine all your learning to that industry. Learn about wine production, do a sake masterclass or attend a cheese tasting.
“All these opportunities will help you to develop your understanding and knowledge, develop your palate and make you a better coffee professional and maybe even open other doors, present new opportunities or unlock a new passion,” she says.
Fleur says the coffee industry has changed dramatically in the last 10 years, but the biggest change she’s noticed is being able to forge a professional career in coffee.
“I hope over the next decade we see the industry continue to evolve and for coffee to become a considered part of every top restaurant’s menu. This is starting to happen at places like Rockpool and Attica but there is a long way to go,” she says.
Fleur has had the opportunity to build special relationships with the communities she is connected to through Market Lane Coffee – from her customers and neighbourhoods, to our local suppliers like Schulz, Tivoli Road and Beatrix.
Fleur says each plays an important role in the business, her team of staff, right through to the dedicated and passionate coffee producers, many of whom Market Lane have worked with for nearly a decade.
“I feel so lucky to be in Melbourne and to work in coffee. The industry has changed and evolved so much over the last 10 years and it has been incredible to be part of its evolution,” she says.
For more information about the Hostplus Hospitality Scholarship and to apply, visit http://www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au/festival-info/scholarship or email scholarship@foodfest.com.au
