Already with two international baking competitions under his apron, the talented 22-year-old has been named a stand-out performer in the World Young Bakery Hopeful competition, a segment of the Bakery World Cup in Paris, France.

John trained at Hunter TAFE, starting his apprenticeship when he was just 16. He recently completed his training with the Australian Baking Team at the Hunter Valley Hotel Academy at Loxford.

In November 2015, John picked up the gong for Young Bakery Hopeful at the Louis Lessafre Cup in Jakarta, which acts as a regional playoff for the Coupe du Monde. John's success in Jakarta was what led to his invitation to compete in France.

John will certainly have his work cut out for him in France. His challenge will be to make 100 bread products in less than an hour, along the theme of Children's Garden Party. "What we serve will be judged according to taste, texture, appearance and how it relates to the theme," said John. "I've been working hard to develop a unique interpretation of some classic party dishes that will appeal to an international judging panel, which includes three bakers and two food critics."

Dean Tilden, baker and Hunter TAFE teacher describes John as "creative, hardworking and dedicated", adding that "I have no doubt he will give the competition everything he has got and make Australia very proud in the process."

John is fully aware of the role TAFE NSW has played in his successful journey. "Undertaking my apprenticeship at TAFE not only enabled me to live out my dream of being a baker, but has also prepared me for the challenges and opportunities associated with the industry."