Students visit Newcrest dining facilities

Newcrest Lihir’s dining facilities, especially the mess and the Lihir Social & Sport Club (LSSC), continue to provide training grounds for many Lihirians who aspire to work in the hospitality and tourism industry.

NCS recently hosted a group of 27 Hotel Management students from Palie Vocational School as part of the school’s annual industry excursion. In hosting this excursion, NCS aligned with Newcrest’s People pillar that empowers and develops people at all levels.

The excursion began at LSSC where Club Manager Joseph Vera welcomed the students. Vera noted that the excitement of the day was mutual because the in-house culinary team was also eager to share their skills with students interested in pursuing a career in the hospitality industry.

The students were taken on a detailed kitchen tour starting with the delivery of food products right through to the final service and necessary hygiene and safety standards. LSSC Sous-Chef John Michael highlighted the various techniques used in food preparation, cooking and the use of various kitchen appliances.

“This excursion reinforces what you’ve learnt in school by providing you with the opportunity to see theory put into practice. I hope that what you’ve experienced today can prepare you to join the workforce,” said Vera.

With more than 20 years of experience between them, Vera and Michael also shared with the students valuable lessons and tips they had learnt throughout their careers.

“Unlike passion, skills can be taught. What you’re learning in school is the skills needed for the job but you must have the passion to serve others. If you don’t like what you’re doing, it translates into the way you cook your food, how it looks and tastes and how you treat your diners,” said Michael.

The students also toured Camp 1 mess to observe how food is prepared and catered on a larger scale.

The excursion was a first for most students with many describing the experience as exciting and insightful.

“Both men (Vera and Michael) were very informative and their experience and knowledge of the hotel industry is invaluable. I look forward to applying what I have learnt today in my work practice,” said student Regine Galas.

Fellow student Christopher Joseph also shared similar sentiments and thanked NCS and Newcrest Lihir for making the excursion possible. “Although the staff were busy preparing to open for the day, they all took the time to acknowledge our presence and made us feel welcome – that is great hospitality indeed.”

(Club Manager Joseph Vera sharing his experience on working in the hospitality industry)

Author: 
Press release