Expo helps to provide workers for peak season

From left, Tony Kovac (Fatv Jerky); Tim James (Austin's Wines), Jackie Price (Give Where You Live Foundation), Darren Nicholson (Tasman Holiday Parks), Jan Clarke (Busy at Work), Annie Zhang (Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine), Amanda Kirk (Cultura), Kara Perrett (The Gordon Skills and Jobs Centre), Kaitlyn Wilson (genU), June O'Brien (Epic Taste Experiences), Paul West (Bellarine Distillery). Photos: ALAN BARBER

HUNDREDS of people enjoyed exploring a range of employment opportunities at the Gordon’s Tourism and Hospitality Expo.

The free-to attend event aimed to address workforce shortages across the Greater Geelong and Bellarine region, and boost industries heading into a busy summer season.

More than 30 local exhibitors actively recruited for tourism and hospitality positions including kitchen attendants, chefs, apprentice bakers, baristas, surf instructors and more.

2020 MasterChef winner Emilia Jackson was a special guest at the Tourism and Hospitality Expo.

Exhibitors conduced on-the-spot interviews on the day, making it the perfect opportunity for job seekers to secure employment in a fun and relaxed space.

2020 MasterChef winner and best-selling author Emilia Jackson headlined the event by performing a live chef demonstration.

Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine Executive director Tracy Carter said the expo was a great way to address workforce shortages ahead of peak season.

Ms Jackson completed a live cooking demonstration for attendees.

“Our Sustainable Destination Master Plan, released last year, highlighted the need for 4,855 new tourism and hospitality jobs by 2032 to meet future visitor demand.

“Events like this expo are critical in ensuring we can recruit and train the next generation of talent to support the industry’s growth.”

Ben Niblett and Laura Jeffrey from Go Ride a Wave.

The Gordon TAFE chief executive officer Joe Ormeo said the education provider was thrilled to deliver the event alongside local employers.

“This expo is a testament to that partnership, connecting our talented students with the businesses that make our region a world-class destination.

“Our culinary school is at the heart of this effort, training the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals who will shape the future of our industry.”