Charcoal Lane trainees get a taste of things to come

A new batch of trainees at Mission Australia’s Charcoal Lane restaurant have had their first taste of food preparation at a day-long bread-making workshop at The Abbotsford Convent. 

Led by master bread-maker Bob, eight of the latest recruits to our Melbourne hospitality training program made scones, pizzas and calzones as well as long and knot rolls from scratch.

“It was a great opportunity for the trainees to gain hands-on experience, especially for those front-of-house guys who would otherwise not get a chance to work in a kitchen,” said Alison Imber.

Alison is Charcoal Lane’s Administration Coordinator, who was joined by Program Coordinator Tristan Higginbottom and Youth Support Worker Andy Brigham. “All of our trainees enjoyed the experience and took home recipes to try out,” Alison said.

Based in Fitzroy, Charcoal Lane specialises in modern cuisine infused with native flavours. It also enables Aboriginal and disengaged young people to gain experience in a supported, real work environment while building personal skills and gaining accredited education in hospitality.

The baking workshop was the first practical experience for the trainees, who have spent the past three weeks participating in an access program to prepare them for a restaurant environment.

During this time they completed first aid and food safety and handling training, and also learned about available support and entitlements to assist them through their traineeships.

On Monday, our Charcoal Lane trainees officially commence day one of their Certificate III in Hospitality. They will start their workplace training in Charcoal Lane’s kitchen and restaurant floor on Tuesday.

Have a look at the team in action on Charcoal Lane’s Facebook picture gallery.

Still time to be part of Reconciliation Through Dining

Guests at this 10 March event at Charcoal Lane will be served a five-course degustation menu matched with wines and enjoy the company of Aboriginal community leaders.

The dinner begins at 6.30pm and costs $150 per person – which includes five courses with matched Victorian wine. Credit card details are required to secure your seat and full payment will be processed by the beginning of March.

To take part in this unique Melbourne Food and Wine Festival event at Charcoal Lane, call (03) 9418 3400.