Felix is one of our inaugural Gaining through Training graduates.
Felix is now just commencing his Year 12 at Ulladulla High School. While Felix completed the Gaining through Training project, he participated in the Long Lunch event at Willinga Park. Following this great experience, Felix is now working as Junior Chef, completing a School Based Apprenticeships in Commercial Cookery under the guidance of head chef Luke Bow at Willinga Park.
What inspires you to pursue Hospitality as a Career Path?
Just a love of food. The versatility and opportunities the industry can provide. After he finishes his apprenticeship, Felix aims to travel overseas, to South East Asia and Japan.
Why did you want to work in your workplace?
It was mainly the amazing facilities at Willinga Park. They have the best of the best in facilities, and the chefs that I work with – Luke and Sean have so much experience and I am learning heaps from them. So yeah, it was also working with the staff there as well.
Doing the Gaining through Training project opened my eyes to the possibilities. I didn’t really know what Willinga Park really was until I did the work experience there. My dad had worked there in landscaping but working there has really given me the awareness of this world class facility.
Where do you want your career choice to take you in the next five years?
I would like to travel overseas and work. I want to keep learning as much as I can here with Luke and Sean.
I really want to keep working in a variety of really good restaurants over the next five years. One day I hope to open my own restaurant, but looking to gain as much experience with good chefs before I do that.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is the learning, the free food at the end of events, tasting what we make. The opportunity to work with people like Sean who does a lot of Korean food is great.
The least favourite part of the job is waking up. I’m not a morning person at all.
How important is it to look the part, your presentation, in your job role?
I mainly work back of house, it suits me to do that and not have to talk to customers. I have worked at front of house a couple of times, which was okay but way more stressful. I have learnt that how you look, your mannerisms when dealing with people is important.
Whats important is to polish your shoes and make sure you smile!
What is the most important thing you have to remember when you start your shift?
The most important thing to remember when starting a shift, one thing I have to remember when doing preps is counting portions. I often forget and we do a lot of prep. After I finish, Luke will ask how many are there and I have to remember. If you’re working back of house, its good to have an overall sense of hygiene and care for your appearance.
Key things that are important to me when working – wash your hands, polish my shoes, ironing your clothes and having the right attitude. Be calm, if there’s problems don’t get flustered. Always remember you are part of a team.
How has the Gaining through Training experience helped you with your journey so far?
Preparing for work, team building skills. Doing the Gaining through Training project opened my eyes to the possibilities.
