New Zealand’s Young Baker of the Year tackles next challenge

Auckland baker Richard Mehana hasn't had time to bask in the glory of winning the title of New Zealand's Young Baker of the Year - he's too busy preparing for the next big challenge.

He will represent New Zealand and his company, Quality Bakers, at the prestigious LA Judge Award in Australia later this month. The three-day contest, from May 25-27, is the premier event for young bakers in the region.

Richard, aged 23, gained his Plant Bread Baking Level 4 qualification in February through Competenz to qualify for the New Zealand Young Baker of the Year award. The prize includes a $10,000 research grant to up skill overseas in new technology and processes.

Richard says winning the title has given his career a real boost. The contestants fought for top honours over a full day of practical baking, research presentations and exams.

"I've worked really hard for this and Quality Bakers gave me the support I needed to get there.

"Many people don't realise how much technology goes into becoming a good baker, but I've had plenty of encouragement to do more training, and the team here has had faith that I can make it."

His supervisor, Goodman Fielder technical training manager Joe Jarkiewicz, says Richard hasn't looked back since he started his apprenticeship in 2004.

"He's gained confidence and really grown as he's learnt more and applied that knowledge," says Joe.

"Richard's all-round performance won him this award, but he also did excellent work on his research topic, the Accurist 2 divider. It's relatively new technology that hasn't been used commercially in New Zealand or Australia yet."

The Plant Bread Baking L4 qualification recognises the specialist skills and knowledge required to produce bread products in large volumes using automated bakery equipment.

"With plant baking, consistency every day is vital," says Joe. "Yeast is a living thing, and a good baker has to learn to control the process. You have to be on the ball, watching the dough as it goes through and making small changes to get the best results."

Quality Bakers Manufacturing Manager David Flett says the company is thrilled with Richard's success - and the fact that its bakers have won the national title for the past three years.

"We must be doing something right. I think it's a reflection of the high standards we set for ourselves that we're consistently producing such high performing up-and-comers."

For more details about Competenz training options, phone 0800 526 1800.

Above: Young Baker of the Year Richard Meihana watches over loaves of bread baking at the Quality Bakers production plant.