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Mentor Programs

This amazing initiative is another way the Gateway to Industry program provides excellent opportunities to its members to ensure they are exposed to the best training and advice. This will in turn ensure that our future industry leaders are well prepared for the realities in the workplace.

We have selected 6 wonderful mentors across our network who have graciously agreed to give their time to help our members with additional support, validation or just a question answered if they ever need. To learn more about this program or connect with a specific mentor please contact us.

Andrew McKenzie - Hospitality Trainer at TAFE Queensland
Andrew McKenzie
Hospitality Trainer at TAFE Queensland
After a career spanning nearly thirty-five years Andrew is now a Cookery Teacher at TAFE Queensland Southbank Campus since 2013, deciding that he wanted to share his experience and knowledge about the industry with Apprentices and Culinary Students. Andrew has worked in Hotels, Restaurants and Resorts in...
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Christian Beattie - HOD | Business and Industry Links at Kirwan SHS
Christian Beattie
HOD | Business and Industry Links at Kirwan SHS
At 17 Christian started a cookery apprenticeship in the Yarra Valley. After qualifying almost 30 years ago, his career has led him to work in many 5 star properties including the Beaufort Darwin, Orpheus Island and the Grand Hyatt Melbourne. Christian was promoted to Head Chef for the BHP training facility in Aitken Hill, Melbo...
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Karen Thornburn - Cluster Learning and Development Manager for International Hotels Group
Karen Thornburn
Cluster Learning and Development Manager for International Hotels Group
Karen’s devotion and dedication within the Hospitality and Tourism industry in operations, Human Resources and the Learning and Development arena is documented with her rich portfolio of academic credentials, experience and contributions in Australia and overseas with leading international hospitality organisations.
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Andrew Simpson - Professional Cookery Teacher at the Queensland College of Wine Tourism
Andrew Simpson
Professional Cookery Teacher at the Queensland College of Wine Tourism
Chef Drew (as he is affectionately known) is QCWT’s inaugural Chef in 2007 and continues to dish up new, exciting and innovative dishes in Varias Restaurant and Cellar Door. Drew uses quality ingredients available in the region, showcasing our ‘local heroes’, the farmers and artisan producers of the Granite Belt. Varias Re...
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Kara Pulou - Hospitality Function Co-ordinator at Redbank Plains SHS
Kara Pulou
Hospitality Function Co-ordinator at Redbank Plains SHS
Kara Pulou, experienced Home Economics and Hospitality Senior Teacher from Redbank Plains SHS. I have been a State School teacher for going on 23 years with 21 of those at Redbank Plains SHS. I have always taught with creativity and a passion to help students at risk, starting my Career always looking for a challenge.
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Thane Williams smiles at the camera whilst holding two awards
Thane Williams
Hospitality Trainer at Marist College Emerald
As a trainer, Thane Williams embraces every opportunity to encourage his students to develop not only their skills but also a passion for hospitality. Through Thane’s vision, his students have had the opportunity to cater functions and events not previously realised due to the rural setting of Marist College Emerald.
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