Brydone Inglis

Chef de Partie, The Bunker Restaurant, Queenstown
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Being able to meet some amazing chefs has been one of the highlights of his studies, says Brydone Inglis who came to AUT to study a Diploma in Culinary Arts.

“I’ve loved meeting new people and the opportunities that have come out from AUT. I’ve worked with famous New Zealand chefs and have loved taking in all of their knowledge as I’m always wanting to learn more to help myself and others.

“After volunteering at an event at AUT’s Four Seasons Restaurant, I was offered the opportunity to work with Ben Bayly at his fine dining restaurant Ahi. I was also invited to work at the Winter Series – Don’t fear the deer, which was hosted at AUT and showcased Cervena venison. During that event, I worked alongside Graham Brown, executive chef and international ambassador for the Deer Industry NZ. I was also fortunate enough to be asked to be part of the Ambassador Awards for Ora King, taking part in a canape competition with Ora King top chef ambassadors.”

All these opportunities to network with industry giants have already opened up a number of job offers for Brydone.

“I’ve worked in back of house for five years and have loved it. I'm currently working at The Bunker Restaurant, Queenstown after previously working at Aosta in Arrowtown.”

Feeling inspired
Deciding to come to AUT to study culinary arts was easy, Brydone says.

“I’ve always loved being in the kitchen and cooking. AUT was recommended to me by several people, including some who had been through AUT themselves, and I knew that AUT has a network of contacts with major industry connections. I also liked that AUT was local and I didn’t have to travel far.”

He would highly recommend the culinary arts programme to other students.

“After talking to a lot of chefs and other people, I’ve found that it’s an easy way to get into the industry and an easy way to meet new people. I’ve gained inspiration in cooking and, just by looking at menus, I now start to think about how I want things done and how I’m going to do them.”

Advice for other students
Brydone has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their university journey.

“My advice would be to keep your head down and work hard, but also have fun and don’t forget to smile. Ask lots of questions, including those that you may think are dumb questions. Question everything, like ‘Why should I do it this way when I can do it that way?’.”

His other piece of advice is not to be afraid to try new things.

“You should try everything at least once before you decide that it’s not for you.”