2025 Scholarship Awardee

“Embrace the experience, leaving your family and friends behind can be very daunting but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you should fully immerse yourself into it.”

2025 QOF Awardee Caitlin Baxter undertook her scholarship in the United Kingdom, working as a Pastry Chef and Demi Chef de Partie at the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, within the Vellore Restaurant. During her time overseas, Caitlin gained hands-on experience preparing and presenting afternoon teas, bar food and entrees, and supporting large-scale banqueting functions including weddings, graduations and award ceremonies.

Through this experience, Caitlin developed a strong understanding of how hospitality businesses operate, gained a new skill set in pastry, and experienced significant personal and professional growth. One of her biggest challenges was securing employment overseas, particularly navigating trial-based recruitment and the high cost of living in the UK.

Now home in Australia, Caitlin is focused on progressing through the chef ranks, building industry connections, and planning for her future restaurant. She is also committed to being a strong voice for mental health in the workplace, demonstrating that individuals can not only survive but truly thrive in demanding industries.