VIITE Culinary Student Wins Bronze at Les Toques Blanches Australia 2026

VIITE is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of culinary student Andres Hernan Aguilar Diaz, who won a Bronze Medal at the Les Toques Blanches Australia Award for Excellence – Apprentice Competition 2026.

The competition was held at William Angliss Institute on 24 September 2026, bringing together talented apprentice chefs and emerging culinary professionals to showcase their technical skills, creativity, discipline, and passion for the hospitality industry. The award ceremony was later held at Sheraton Melbourne, where the achievements of participants were recognised and celebrated.

A Colombian-Inspired Menu

Andres represented VIITE with a thoughtfully prepared Colombian-inspired menu, combining contemporary presentation with flavours influenced by his cultural background. His menu featured Barramundi Salad with Lemon Butter Sauce, followed by Chicken Roulade with Cheese, Corn Sauce and Baby Carrots in a Lemon Reduction. For dessert, he presented a Lemon Bavarois Cake with Coconut Textures, incorporating toasted coconut, fresh coconut and coconut coulis.

Dedication, Skill and Professional Growth

The Bronze Medal reflects the dedication, preparation and culinary skill Andres demonstrated throughout the competition. Participating in an industry event such as the Les Toques Blanches Australia Award for Excellence also gives aspiring chefs the opportunity to test their abilities, gain valuable professional experience and learn from respected culinary leaders.

This achievement is also a proud moment for the wider VIITE community. Special thanks go to our VIITE Culinary & Hospitality Trainers for their guidance, encouragement and commitment to helping students build practical skills and professional confidence.

VIITE also extends its sincere appreciation to the LTB Committee — John Casey (President), Craig Dowling (Secretary & Executive Chef), and Dale Lyman (Chief Judge) — for providing such an important platform for young chefs to demonstrate their talent, connect with the industry and strive for excellence.

A Proud VIITE Moment

Congratulations once again to Andres Hernan Aguilar Diaz on this well-deserved Bronze Medal. His achievement is a strong example of what can be accomplished through dedication, creativity and passion for the culinary arts.

A proud VIITE moment and an exciting step forward in Andres' culinary journey.