TAFE NSW Grafton Commercial Cookery graduate Scott Wright has been awarded the William R Galvin Memorial Scholarship, which honours outstanding students who demonstrate a strong commitment to the tourism and hospitality industry.
The Scholarship is valued at $5000 and aims to support the next generation of industry leaders in the sector, giving them access to training programs, conferences and study tours. It was established in memory of the late William R Galvin OAM, a former TAFE NSW teacher.
This year the applicants were so strong a joint prize was awarded, with Scott being recognised alongside fellow TAFE NSW student Mia Barclay, who graduated this year from the Certificate III in Cake and Pastry at TAFE NSW Hamilton.
Scott began his career washing dishes in a local restaurant in his hometown of Yamba and now works as a Chef at the Blaxland Inn, in Pokolbin.
He says the scholarship will make a huge difference as he gains further experience in the industry:
"Obviously everyone’s tightening their belts at the moment with the cost of living, so this will go a long way towards me being able to continue my studies,” he says. "Honestly, I was never overly academic and I didn’t thrive in school. My real education began when I started work at a restaurant in Yamba. I loved every second of it - the heat, the long hours on my feet and the chaos of the kitchen.
"I spent three years there, watching the Chefs cook with such precision. Fast forward to beginning my studies with TAFE NSW, tackling the stress of work and study was very challenging. The support of my teachers got me through, they were incredible.
"The opportunities I have been afforded through TAFE are endless. I have competed in WorldSkills and the Nestle Golden Chef Hat Cookery Competition, became a finalist in the Fonterra Proud to be a Chef Mentoring Program and won the TAFE NSW Apprentice of the Year Excellence Award. So, a massive accomplishment for a young lad from Yamba who was born at prematurely at 25 weeks.
"I have aspired to work at an amazing restaurant in London called Fallow. Its commitment to sustainability, bold flavours and cutting-edge ideas speaks to me and everything I believe in as a Chef. I plan to use this scholarship to travel to London to try and learn under the incredible Head Chefs.
"Longer term, I want to move home, open a cracking restaurant and bring world flavours to Yamba.”
TAFE NSW Teacher Bernadette Ryan says Scott has always gone above and beyond in his studies, showing his dedication through dynamic participation.
"There are few stories as compelling as Scott’s,” she says. "He smashed through any challenges that came his way, not just showing up but shouting from the rooftops his exceptional passion and drive.
"His commitment in one of the toughest trades that exists is evident to everyone who works with him. Every time someone said no, he would just go about his business proving yes was his word and action of choice. I cannot wait to see what he does next."
