How Nathan Nixon’s journey in the Queensland Parliament chef apprenticeship program transformed passion into a profession, his advice for prospective chefs, and why the program is a perfect place to start a culinary career.
From Nan’s kitchen to Parliament House
Just a few years ago, Nathan Nixon would have never imagined himself as a qualified chef. He was working as a commercial cleaner in the Strangers Restaurant kitchen at Queensland Parliament and facing a career crossroads, often telling the apprentice chef at the time “I could never do what you do”. Although he had grown up with a love for cooking, watching his Nan make Sunday roasts and elaborate spreads for Christmas and Easter, he’d never thought of turning that passion into a career. That was until Scott Andrews, Parliament’s executive sous chef encouraged him to consider an apprenticeship. And so began his journey in the professional culinary world.
Nathan has just completed his three-year apprenticeship with Queensland Parliament, and in planning his next career move, sat down to reflect on his journey from start to finish.
A day in the life of an apprentice chef at Queensland Parliament
A typical day as an apprentice chef according to Nathan starts at around 6:30am by preparing the kitchens for service and heading into the coffee shop for a strong coffee, and a chat with the precinct’s much-loved barista. In the early days of the apprenticeship, typical jobs focused on building strong foundation of skills through tasks such as preparing fruit salads, making sandwiches, and roasting vegetables. As Nathan’s skills advanced, as did his responsibilities. From this high-volume catering level, he progressed into fine dining in Strangers’ Restaurant where the menu is much more meticulous and complex, and he was able to refine his skills under the demand of precision, speed, and attention to detail.
Looking ahead
Now that his apprenticeship is complete, Nathan has his sights set on the world. Travel is next on his list, hoping to work at The Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland, home to one of only two restaurants in the country with two Michelin Stars. It’s an intentional choice with special meaning, as two of Nathan’s mentors from Parliament, Anthony Naylor (executive chef) and Nigel Mills (sous chef), spent a portion of their career there. Longer term, Nathan hopes to return to Queensland or New South Wales to open his own restaurant or catering company.
Learning from the best
Nathan’s highlight in his apprenticeship was easily the people.
“Being around all these skilled chefs that have travelled the world and have such a plethora of knowledge… every day I learn something new from these people”. This extends even to the agency chefs who are only in during sitting weeks. “The amount of things I’ve learned from a chef that I’ve seen for just one day is astounding”.
The key lessons and takeaways he’d pass onto future apprentices are:
- “Sharp knife, sharp mind”. Stay focused – especially on your thumbs
- Stay humble and open to learning – “Even if you think you know, just take in the advice and learn”
- Find balance – Rest properly, enjoy your personal time, keep your uniform clean, and most importantly find fun in each day and opportunity to learn.
Pushing through the pressure
The world of a professional chef is no doubt a difficult and intense one. “Sometimes it’s hot and it’s pressure, and your head hurts, you’re lost in the sauce”. But for Nathan, the understanding that these moments are temporary is what has kept him going. The real satisfaction came from pushing through and proving to himself that “you can go through something that a normal person wouldn’t be able to go through without having a panic attack and you come out the other end, you’re stronger, more resilient, every single time.”
A program that opens doors
Nathan’s journey, from kitchen cleaner to chef, has been one of grit and growth made possible by dedication, encouragement and mentorship from some of the best in the industry. It’s a reminder that Queensland Parliament is home to more than just parliamentary work. The chef apprenticeship program is a fantastic opportunity to sharpen skills, build careers and gain experience that can take you anywhere in the world.
Interested in working at Parliament? Keep your eyes on the careers page at: https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/global/careers
This article was written by Isabelle Saggal, Graduate Parliamentary Service Officer.
