LA Judge Award for Baking Apprentice of the Year

Since 1967, the LA Judge Award has promoted excellence and celebrated the skills of young bakers. Each year, young apprentice bakers from across Australia and New Zealand go head to head in a tough but friendly competition designed to test their skills in all aspects of baking, from hands-on baking proficiency and technical acumen to presentation skills.

The LA Judge Award is often a life-changing experience for young bakers apsiring to develop their skills and make their mark on the industry.

There are many examples of past competitors and winners who have gone on to be highly successful in the Australian baking industry.

The LA Judge Award relies on the support of industry sponsors.

2024 Winner

After a close-fought competition, we are thrilled to announce that Imogen Fearon from Queensland is the 2024 LA Judge Baking Apprentice of the Year.

The first prize provided by Puratos Australia New Zealand includes an expenses-paid trip to the Puratos headquarters in Belgium, where Imogen will receive training with some of the world’s best technical experts.

Imogen’s win takes the Queensland state tally to 14 wins.

View images of this year’s competition and Gala Dinner on our Facebook page.

Save the date: LA Judge Award 2025

Australasia’s most prestigious annual baking prize in 2025 promises to be better than ever. Join us as we celebrate the remarkable talent of our young baking apprentices and witness the crowning of the coveted LA Judge Award recipient.

Since 1967, this esteemed prize has honoured the best young baking apprentice in Australia and New Zealand, serving as a beacon for future industry leaders.

Competitors aged 25 and under showcase their baking prowess and industry knowledge over three intense days of competition, highlighting the importance of practical skills, technical expertise and effective communication.

Competition: Tue 13 – Thu 15 May 2025

DATES: 13 – 15 May 2025
VENUE: AEGIC, North Ryde, Sydney NSW, 2113

Register to take part in the 2025 competition

If you are interested in taking part in the 2025 competition, as a competitor, judge or sponsor, please complete our expression of interest form.

Expression of interest form

Gala dinner: Thursday 15 May 2025

TIME: 6.30pm
Three course meal and drinks provided.
VENUE: Sydney Masonic Centre, | 66 Goulburn Street Sydney NSW 2000

Tickets sold out fast last year. Join the wait list for the 2025 Gala Dinner tickets and be first to know when they go on sale:

Join waitlist for 2025 Gala Dinner tickets

Sponsorship

AEGIC thanks and acknowledges our generous baking and allied industry supporters without whom the LA Judge Award would not be possible. The competition and gala dinner / award ceremony are run on a not-for-profit basis by the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC), who also contribute to the event as a Major Sponsor.

The professional and personal development gained through participation in this competition is life-changing and ensures the future of the baking industry is in good hands.

This opportunity would not be possible without the generous support of industry sponsors, and we thank them for their ongoing support.

Download sponsorship prospectus