Event Date: June 30th, 2025 (6:00pm - 10:00pm)

Event Location: 2 Cross Rd, Burraneer NSW 2230, Australia

This event has occurred there will be footage on the 28th August at the Sydney Catholic Schools Event 2pm – 5pm

The Pines Restaurant in Cronulla was buzzing recently — not just with diners, but with the energy and professionalism of 14 Year 12 Hospitality students from St Aloysius College. In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, students took over the acclaimed venue for a full-service dinner event that brought their VET training to life in a high-pressure, high-performance environment.

Guided by four professional chefs and supported by their teachers, students worked a full commercial kitchen shift from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., managing everything from mise en place to final plate-up. Teachers also stepped in as front-of-house staff, while proud parents and friends filled the restaurant to experience the incredible food and service.

In the lead-up to the event, students completed a trial prep day onsite, giving them a clear insight into the precision, pace, and teamwork required in the industry. It was a full-circle moment — a true celebration of everything they’ve learned during their Certificate II in Hospitality Cookery.

This event wasn’t just about food. It was about confidence, capability, and connection — the kind that happens when industry opens its doors and students step up to meet the challenge. A special thanks goes to The Pines Cronulla team for mentoring, trusting, and championing the next generation of hospitality professionals.

The Pines Takeover proves just how powerful VET can be when learning is real, relevant, and rooted in industry partnership.