Brad Hewitt
Southern Region Technical Manager, Lesaffre Australia Pacific
My name is Brad Hewitt, I have been involved in the baking industry for 30 years. My roles have included working in independent, franchised and in-store bakeries. Upon completion of a Diploma of Vocational Education and Training I moved into the training space working at William Angliss Institute, during this time I was afforded the opportunity to train bakers in Australia, New Zealand and throughout South-East Asia.
The past 5 years I have been working at Lesaffre in a technical capacity. This has allowed me to further develop my knowledge of fermentation techniques, product development and bread improver composition and formulation. I work collaboratively with customers to improve process efficiency, minimize wastage, and enhance finished goods quality.
I am looking forward to sharing and gaining knowledge with the 2023 LA Judge Award competitors and judging panel.
Tristan Beisler
Baked Uprising, 2019 LA Judge Award Baking Apprentice of the Year
My name is Tristan Beisler. I have spent a lot of my life growing up in my family bakery – Dungog Barrington Bakery. Started by my pop, now owned by my dad, for as long as I can remember I have been making bread, pies, and other pastry products.
From this I’ve earned a deep respect and appreciation for the art of baking and how much joy a simple loaf of bread can bring. While training at Hamilton TAFE to earn my trade, I was lucky enough to participate and win the LA Judge Award in 2019.
I have recently begun working at Baked Uprising in Newcastle, a sourdough bakery which takes upmost pride in ingredients and products. With this focus, I’m hoping to learn a lot more about sourdough and more traditionally fermented doughs.
Shane Dennehy
TAFE NSW
My name is Shane Dennehy, I have been in the Australian baking industry for over 20 years including 10 years in setting up bakery businesses and in managerial roles leading teams of up to 30 people.
I transitioned to TAFE NSW since 2022 to fulfil my passion to share my knowledge through 20 years of working experience, engage and inspire those who seek to be the best in the industry.
In addition to teaching Patisserie / Baking I am also a qualified bike instructor. During my spare time I enjoy travel, off road adventures and spending time with family.