An apprentice chef from Dudley’s Restaurant in Olinda was honoured with the prestigious Casey Apprentice and Trainee Award by Federal Member Aaron Violi.
The recognition came during a ceremony at Chirnside Park Country Club, where ten outstanding apprentices and trainees from a range of industries were honoured for their hard work and dedication.
The 20-year-old apprentice chef at Dudley’s Restaurant, Eden Roberts, said he was humbled by the win.
“It means a lot,” he said.
“I was obviously thrilled to win, but honestly, I would have been just as happy even if I didn’t. The best part was having so much support from my friends and family, it felt great to know that so many people were behind me in getting to this point.”
Mr Roberts, who grew up surrounded by the hospitality industry, is deeply influenced by his mother – a chef and former restaurant owner – and credits her for sparking his passion for cooking.
“I’ve always been around kitchens since I was little, my mum is the main reason I got into cooking,” he said.
“All my siblings went down the academic path, and for a while, I thought I would too, but eventually, I realised cooking was what I loved.”
Reflecting on his successful journey so far, Mr Roberts said he takes great pride in having overcome the challenges he faced during his apprenticeship.
“When I first started, I worked on pizzas, and eventually, I got the opportunity to work on other sections of the kitchen,” he said.
“It was challenging at first, but thanks to AJ’s guidance, I’ve learned so much. It was such a proud moment when I could take on more responsibility in the kitchen.”
Head Chef at Dudley’s Restaurant, AJ Singh has been a significant mentor Mr Roberts throughout his apprenticeship.
“Eden has been with us for about four or five years now,” Mr Singh said.
“He started when he was quite young, and it’s been amazing watching him grow into a talented chef, he’s dedicated, works hard, and can manage every section of the kitchen with ease.”
Mr Singh also offered advice for young chefs entering the industry.
“It’s important to give apprentices time to develop,” he said.
“In the beginning, they need a lot of support, but as they grow, you can mould them into great chefs, my advice to Eden and others starting out is simple: don’t burn yourself out. Take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Always speak up if you’re feeling stressed or need a break.”
The evening highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of young tradespeople across the Yarra Ranges and alongside Eden, an electrical apprentice at Stretch Electrics in Lilydale, Jarryn Stephenson was also recognised as the runner-up.
Other standout finalists included Aimee Kleehammer, trainee chef at Three Sugars Cafe in Warburton; Lily Reynolds, hairdressing apprentice at Blonde and Co in Yarra Glen; and Nathan Robinson-Darvell, carpentry apprentice at Maltarona Constructions.
One of the owners of Dudley’s Restaurant, Mary Miller, commended the young apprentice chef’s strong work ethic and the respect he earns from both the front and back of house.
“Eden is just 20, but he’s already shown incredible maturity and dedication,” Ms Miller said.
“He has a great attitude and is always willing to put in extra work, which has earned him the respect of his colleagues. He also gave back to the community by teaching local kids how to make pizza during the school holidays. It’s this level of commitment and generosity that makes Eden so deserving of this award.”
The awards hosted by Mr Violi highlighted the crucial role local trades and apprenticeships play in shaping the community’s future workforce.
“It is so important our young people know that university is not the only pathway to success. My Casey Apprentice and Trainee Awards are about recognising the hard work of apprentices and trainees and encouraging our next generation of local trades,” Mr Violi said.
“It was fantastic to have employers attend the awards with their apprentices and trainees to recognise the impact they make to local businesses.”
Mr Roberts is eager to see what the future holds and the opportunities it may bring for him.
“I’ve just completed my apprenticeship, and my next goal is to continue learning and honing my skills,” he said.
I’d love to spend some time working in the city and maybe even go back to England to work in a few restaurants there. Eventually, my ultimate goal is to open my own place.”
“I think it’s important to always strive for something more, and I’m excited for what comes next.”
