FNQ baking apprentices August Stokes and Rick Schwartz take the cake at national awards

Two rising stars of the Far North’s baking industry have achieved sweet victories at a national awards ceremony in Brisbane. Read about their recipes for success here.

Two Far North baking apprentices have shown outstanding skills at the prestigious Baking Industry Training Australia awards in Brisbane.

Babinda Bakery’s August Stokes, 25, took out the national 2022 BITA Certificate 3 in Cake and Pastry, third year apprentice award, while Wild Yeast FNQ’s Rick Schwarz from Trinity Beach was awarded third place in the first year apprentice division.

Mr Stokes said winning the award was the culmination of a challenging time which included the death of mentor Michael McAlloon, who with his wife Annette were his employers.

Babinda Bakery's August Stokes won 2022 BITA Apprentice Awards Certificate 3 in Cake and Pastry and 3RD Year Apprentice of the Year. Picture: Supplied

“When I heard I’d been nominated against some of the best in Australia, I was so proud,” he said.

Ms McAlloon said Mr Stokes was a genuine star talent for their business.

“Mick knew what we had, he said August was pure brilliance,” Ms McAlloon said.

First year apprentice baker Rick Schwarz of Wild Yeast bakery, Trinity Beach, has placed third in the Certificate III baking category in the Baking Industry Training Australia awards. Rick Schwarz (centre) with Wild Yeast FNQ Co owners Chris Schwarz and Alicia Schwarz. Picture: Brendan Radke

Mr Schwartz, 28, said he was thrilled with his award.

“It’s really good to be recognised,” he said.

His employer – and older brother – Chris Schwartz, said they were very proud.

“It’s a good achievement,” he said.

“For Rick to be recognised for his efforts is fantastic.

“Being my brother aside, he and other apprentice Ermanno have a really good work ethic.”

Originally published as FNQ baking apprentices August Stokes and Rick Schwartz take the cake at national awards