Palazzo Versace’s Hotel Academy is back with BECOME A BARISTA at the 2015 Gold Coast Show
With its luxurious surroundings and renowned fine dining experience; designer hotel Palazzo Versace is all about the finer things in life.
For the third year running, the Gold Coast Show is proud to showcase The Hotel Academy at Palazzo Versace, in conjunction with Coffee Education Network, to celebrate the annual junior barista competition.
The BECOME A BARISTA competition will take place at the Gold Coast Show on August 28, where entrants will be judged on international criteria based on the famous World Barista Championship.
Gold Coast Show Manager Lavinia Rampino says school-aged trainee baristas will be given the chance to advance their coffee making skills.
“This is a great opportunity for local trainees to showcase and perfect their skills, be creative and absorb knowledge from coffee industry experts,” Ms Rampino said.
“They will expand their knowledge, receive feedback from the judges and obtain a certificate of participation.”
Training Manager of The International Hotel School Karen Thorburn says the competition will be run by Hotel Academy trainees as part of their studies.
“My students will be organising the event, with a great line up of judges including previous Australian barista champions, latte art champions and coffee roasters,” Ms Thorburn says.
“Just like the World Barista Championships, entrants are judged on sensory and technical criteria. Industry professionals will provide entrants with feedback on their 10 minute performances.
“Competitors will present two espressos, two milk beverages and two signature beverages to sensory judges for tasting.
“Technical judges will examine elements including how extractions flow and how well milk is steamed and poured.”
Ms Thorburn says there will be more competitors this year, with eight entries already submitted and a total of 10 to 12 expected by the closing date.
“This year, due to bigger numbers, we will have two coffee machines so when one is preparing another will be competing – something will constantly be on the go,” Ms Thorburn says.
“On the day there will be other food and coffee stalls, such as Turkish coffee, alternative coffee brewing methods, student cookery displays and much more!
“The Palazzo Versace students will be running a coffee cart, serving morning and afternoon goodies.”
Places are limited, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to enter the competition. Entries close on August 17.
Send entry forms to [email protected] or contact Karen Thorburn on 0437 863 600 for competition inquiries.
