23/09/2008

SKYCITY AUCKLAND CELEBRATES WIN AT NZ WORLD YOUTH SKILLS COMPETITION

From September 18 to 21, selected chefs from throughout the country competed for the coveted title, and the opportunity to represent New Zealand in the world finals to be held in Calgary, Canada in September 2009.

Thomas Townsend’s abilities across a number of cookery disciplines impressed the judges in Wellington, a further indication of his talents following his win at the HSI Modern Apprentice of the Year in July.

“I am really pleased to have won such a prestigious award which is acknowledged worldwide. The support of SKYCITY, my managers Peter Ray and Mark Wylie, and the HSI apprentice programme has given me the confidence to enter culinary competitions, and be able to compete on the highest level.”

Mark Wylie, Executive Chef at SKYCITY Auckland, said: “We congratulate Thomas on this outstanding win, which not only reflects his ability but also that of our training team. For Thomas to be competing on an international level is fantastic.

“At SKYCITY we are keen to nurture and develop the talents of our apprentices. Wins at the HSI Scholarship programme, NZ Culinary Fare and the Torque d’Or reflect the skills of our staff and apprentices alike. Thanks to Thomas’ win, SKYCITY apprentices have won all three of the major trainee awards this year.”

Gráinne Troute, General Manager of Group Services and Human Resources, said: “In order to make SKYCITY a destination for staff as well as guests, we are keen to develop individual capabilities.

“For SKYCITY to be an employer of choice, it is paramount our staff experience a sense of progression and achievement. Thomas Townsend’s ongoing successes reflect this initiative and the calibre of our staff at all levels.”

SKYCITY has produced a number of excellent results at recent hospitality, food and beverage competitions, including NZ Culinary Fare and the Torque d’Or. SKYCITY apprentice Giann Ordonio also won New Zealand Commis Chef of the Year, another important title available for trainee chefs.

www.skycity.co.nz

For further information please contact:

Olivia Brewer, Communications Executive
SKYCITY Entertainment Group
Phone: +64 9 363 6334
Mob:        021 505 638
E-mail:   olivia.brewer@skycity.co.nz