From lattes to long or short blacks, baby chinos or the simple delight of a cappuccino; brewing and making coffee is an art form using skills honed over the years by the most experienced of baristas. Melbourne is the coffee capital of the world and our hospitality industry is in dire need of workers with skills to quench the thirst of coffee lovers everywhere.
Confronting an industrial coffee machine can be daunting at first, however, Keilor Public Golf Course’s partnership with Jesuit Community College, and its Ready Set Work Barista course, is the foundation for many in our community to learn the craft and language of the coffee world.
Over two days, participants joined in a hands-on experience where they delved into the world of coffee using all the tools of the trade. From learning how to grind beans, understanding the importance of the crema double shot macchiatos and even how to sustainably reduce waste by adding used coffee grinds to compost and garden beds.
Through learning, participants have been able to gain new skills and have begun their journey to providing themselves with the confidence and self-esteem to embark on a career in the hospitality industry.
Venue Manager, Jack McDonald said, “As we move into a Covid normal way of life, there has been a lot of news around staff shortages in the hospitality sector. Hosting this program allows people in our community to up-skill, and if they desire, find employment within a sector that requires workers.”
Keilor Public Golf Course proudly supports its community through the free use of its venue for courses such as Ready Set Work Barista. The importance of partnering with community groups connects with participants as they feel supported and engaged through the learning process.