From Beaudesert to Bronze: Lauren Robin’s Rise in Australia’s Baking Scene

A recent graduate of TAFE Queensland’s Certificate III in Bread Baking (FBP30521), Lauren’s career has been anything but half-baked.

Taking home the bronze medal for Baking at the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships & Skills Show, she cemented her place among the country’s top young tradespeople.

Held in Brisbane, the prestigious competition brought together more than 600 talented competitors across 60 skill categories. Competing on home turf, Lauren impressed judges with her creativity, precision, and calm under pressure.

“I was nervous but excited. It was an amazing experience to compete with so many talented people and come away with a medal, and I’ve learned so much from every competition I’ve entered,” Lauren said.

Originally from Beaudesert and now living in Jimboomba, Lauren began her journey unsure of what came after high school. But an early morning job in the Coles bakery sparked her interest - and when the opportunity for an apprenticeship came up, she jumped at the chance.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I loved working in the bakery at Coles. When they offered me an apprenticeship, I said yes. Bakers can work anywhere in the world, and I’ll be qualified by the time I’m 21,” she said.

That decision led her to TAFE Queensland, where she found hands-on learning, expert mentors, and a supportive environment that pushed her to succeed.

“The teachers are amazing – they were always just a phone call away, they helped me prepare for WorldSkills and other competitions by making sure I had everything I needed and the confidence to try new things,” Lauren said.

In addition to her WorldSkills success, Lauren also claimed the Northern Region Scholarship at the 2024 Australian Baking Industry National Scholarship Awards (ABINSA), earning the Sydney J Packham Medal.

The scholarship recognised her passion and technical skills and included a five-day Melbourne industry tour, access to sector leaders, and a ticket to the Australian Society of Baking’s annual conference and gala dinner.

Not stopping there, Lauren was also named Apprentice Baker of the Year, sponsored by the Manildra Group, during her graduation in February 2025.

Lauren’s apprenticeship showcases the power of practical training and expert guidance, and has equipped her with skills in artisan bread making, from ciabattas and baguettes to croissants.

TAFE Queensland also gave her the chance to connect with classmates from all walks of life, growing her confidence and network.

“It was great working alongside people of all ages and backgrounds. The competitions helped me experiment and improve, and the training has prepared me for any bakery environment,” she said.

Now, with several awards under her belt and her apprenticeship nearing completion, Lauren is eyeing global opportunities.

“My goal now is to travel and keep learning. One of the reasons I became a baker is that you can bake anywhere in the world - and I’d love to work overseas in the next five to ten years.”

Her advice to others considering a career in baking is simple.

“Find a good environment to work in, study at TAFE Queensland, and say yes to opportunities - especially competitions. You never know where they might take you,” concluded Lauren.