For over a decade, the Hostplus Hospitality Scholarship has been a springboard for many next-generation chefs, managers, waiters, vintners, coffee roasters, butchers and more. 

Open to applicants aged 22 - 35, the scholarship program is facilitated by the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival (MFWF). Through its extensive hospitality network, MFWF tailors the winner's work experience to suit their interests and career aspirations. 

Anthea Loucas Bosha, CEO of Food + Drink Victoria, said investing in the next generation of hospitality professionals is the best way to ensure a bright future for the industry in Australia.  

"Good people are the most essential resource in Australian hospitality, and this scholarship is a way for the best of the new generation to fast-track their path to becoming the leaders and the change-makers of tomorrow. 

"Investing in the future today is the way to keep hospitality strong and resilient, making the business better and making a positive contribution to our society," she said.

Sarah Cremona, the 2022 Hostplus Hospitality Scholarship winner, said the scholarship allowed her to pursue her dream of "actively promot[ing] local produce, educating diners and staff alike."

Cremona, who gave up a career in banking to pursue her passion for food, was awarded a three-month stint at a world-famous restaurant and is now Chef de Partie at Pt Leo Estate on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. 

"Sarah embodies everything that this scholarship is about," said Umberto Mecchi of Hostplus. "She has clear goals, a vision for the industry, and a wide-ranging understanding of what's required to make these things happen."

As part of her Hostplus scholarship, Cremona will also travel to New Zealand in May to work with chef and MFWF alumnus Vaughan Williams at the highly regarded Amisfield and plans to extend her trip to forage, spearfish, and hunt on New Zealand's beautiful South Island.  

This year the prize includes:

  • 1 x five-day work experience in Australia
  • Up to $1,500 towards flights
  • Up to $1,750 towards accommodation
  • $1,000 cash
  • Up to $5,000 to spend on professional development or training at an agreed and approved education provider or on professional tools, kitchen equipment or similar assets to progress professional development
  • $500 worth of tickets to attend MFWF events in 2024
  • The Scholarship winner will also be partnered with a local industry leader for a year-long mentorship to expand their industry experience and connections in their chosen field.

For selection criteria and terms and conditions, visit the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival website.

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