Travelling in Western Australia gave 21-year old German Chef Michael Braun a chance to experience fresh local produce, surf in Margaret River and gain valuable career experience at the Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle.“I finished a three-year apprenticeship in Germany in April 2004 then worked in Austria during the busy ski season.
“I’m travelling around Australia with a friend. We’ve got a campervan so we can explore and visit the National Parks. The west coast is so beautiful – I love the beaches.
“One of the things that has impressed me most in Australia is the wonderful fresh ingredients, especially the seafood. I’d never cooked kangaroo or crocodile before – that was a new experience!
“I’m a Chef for the Esplanade Hotel’s ‘a la carte’ restaurant, Café Panache. We use the freshest produce available and I have an opportunity to brainstorm menus with the head chef. I like making selections of the local produce to create interesting menus.
“People are so friendly and open here – someone we met at the beach in Margaret River asked if we were enjoying Australia and invited us home for a barbecue. The lifestyle is great. Fremantle is very Mediterranean and everything you need is close.
“When I leave here I’ll go to the north of Western Australia, then I might work on a cruise ship or take up a traineeship in California. Then I will go back to Germany to study hospitality management so I have more choice in career directions. I love art and music, and I play piano and guitar.
“There are many things I want to do!”
