Gordon cooking up a storm for Geelong employers

GEELONG’S new state-of-the-art culinary training precinct is set to provide a steady stream of industry professionals in a timely boost to the region’s tourism and hospitality sector.

The Gordon TAFE welcomed high-profile guests, esteemed alumni and Australian foodie icons for the opening of its $23.5-million Culinary Precinct last week.

The launch included a revamp of the institution’s first building, the Davidson restaurant that opened in 1887, with a social café and barista school on the way next year in the original red brick cafeteria.

An education and conference space called the Share Plate will rounds out the new precinct with an events space for up to 100 patrons, which will soon have an outdoor deck added.

The Gordon CEO Joe Ormeno said the new complex would help cement Geelong’s reputation as a regional culinary centre.

“The opening of our Culinary Precinct delivers modern, cutting-edge facilities that ensure the highest level of culinary and hospitality education,” he said.

“In this innovative space, skills will be nurtured and honed, preparing our next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals to flourish in their careers – locally and all around the world.”

Mr Ormeno said the expansion would allow an extra 579 students, including 275 apprentices and trainees, to earn their stripes in the next four years.

State government representatives were in attendance at last week’s launch, with Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney anticipating a boost for the local economy ahead of a host of major events on their way to Geelong in coming years.

“This new facility will give the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals the training they deserve and help create a pipeline of skilled workers for the region ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games,” the Western Victoria MP said.

The state government provided $13.5 million for the precinct, with The Gordon chipping in $10 million of its own cash.