Chef-in-Training Eden Shines at Regional TAFE NSW Competition
Apprentice Chef Eden has made Garden Village proud, placing fourth in the TAFE NSW WorldSkills Regional Competition.
Competing against 14 culinary students from across the region, Eden impressed judges with a menu of chicken fricassee with hasselback potatoes and glazed carrots, followed by a deconstructed raspberry curd tart.
The competition challenged students to demonstrate the skills they’ve been building throughout their training, with TAFE teacher Lisa Chandler and Head Teacher Chris Nieuwenhof judging the event.
For Eden, it was a moment that reflected months of hard work. The competition offers a clear pathway for upcoming chefs, with first place earning a spot at the National Competition in Adelaide in 2027. Eden finishes TAFE in November and hopes to be a qualified chef by January. Eden said highlights of the TAFE course have been:
“I love cooking with new ingredients and techniques, and the connections I’ve made with some of my classmates,”
Garden Village congratulates Eden on this outstanding achievement. Eden was awarded an apprenticeship scholarship thanks to funds received from the Garden Village Auxiliary. Eden’s catering career commenced at Garden Village three and a half years ago. Showing a passion for becoming a chef Eden has started the Chefs Apprenticeship at TAFE Port Macquarie in February 2025.
Head Chef Ash Dantl said “We’re delighted to see Eden reach this fantastic milestone. Food is such a fundamental part of aged care — it brings comfort, connection and joy. A well-prepared meal can brighten someone’s day and make a real difference to their wellbeing. Eden is a wonderful asset to the team and always brings a smile to work.”
