Geordies Kitchen was built in 2003 to create a lasting memorial to local student Geordie Whitfield who was tragically killed in a car accident on January 31, 2002.
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Although Geordie wasn’t a scholar and struggled with the theory aspect of Hospitality, he gave up lunch times and study periods to continually be assessed on knowledge outcomes related to Hospitality.
He finished his last written re-assessment during the final weeks of HSC exams.
P&C President Sharon Kemp described his self-determination and focus to achieve his Certificate II in Hospitality – Kitchen Operations as admirable.
“Geordie completed his HSC in 2001 at Yass High School and could not wait to start his dream job of a chef,” Mrs Kemp said.
“He accepted an apprenticeship at Mezzalira restaurant in Canberra. He was working long hours from 9.30am until 3.30pm and then backing up for 5.30am until 10pm - he was in his element.”
When Geordie and fellow classmate Nikki Forbutt enrolled at CIT as part of their apprenticeship, they were advised to enrol as first year students.
“CIT didn’t recognise their work at Yass High, as not all lessons were taught in a commercial kitchen. They were disappointed but happy to just be working as chefs,” she continued.
Six weeks into his dream job, Geordie was returning home from work to Gunning when he lost control of his car on the dirt road, skidding across the road and hitting a tree.
At a time of immense grief, Geordies family made the decision to honour him by fundraising enough money to build a fully operational commercial kitchen within the existing Food Technology kitchen.
The Yass and Gunning communities united and raised $18,000 towards the $40,000 commercial kitchen.
“The remaining funds were gained through a DET grant. No other student would be told that their training at Yass High School wasn’t acceptable due to limited access to commercial quality equipment,” she said.
Geordies Kitchen was officially opened in July 2004 by his family.
The loss of Geordies Kitchen in the 2012 fire that also destroyed the entire Technology Block was heartbreaking for all involved. The discovery of the Geordies Kitchen brass dedication plaque amongst the rubble was a true miracle and sent a message that Geordies Kitchen would once again be established at Yass High.
“The fully operational commercial kitchen now at YHS is of such a high standard that no student should ever be questioned on their training in Years 11 and 12,” Mrs Kemp said.
“Let’s hope this amazing facility enables more young adults just like Geordie to achieve their dreams - Dare to Dream.”
...Officially opened
In an unveiling of the new T Block, Yass High School will officially open the new facilities this Friday from 5pm. The function will include the re-dedication of Geordie's Kitchen, student-led tours, demonstrations, performances and refreshments and will provide an opportunity to acknowledge those who have made significant contributions towards this great facility.
Anyone interested must RSVP by phoning 6226 1711 or emailing yass-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au.
