By Laura Michell
Syrian refugee Nibal Almarri knows a thing or two about baking a perfect gateau.
The Gladstone Park student recently took out first place in the gateau-making category at the 2019 Victorian Baking Show.
Her Kangan Institute classmates, Sarisa Kaewklang and Cassandra Hedger, also had success at the show, finishing second and third in the gateau category.
The students were among eight from Kangan Institute’s retail baking course to compete at the show.
Ms Almarri, who came to Australia in 2016 on a humanitarian visa, said the award was the first step towards building a successful career.
“I was happy, surprised and thrilled to win,” she said.
“Having recently arrived in Australia, I didn’t expect to compete and win at state level. I wouldn’t have such an achievement without my teachers’ guidance.”
Kangan Institute chief executive Trevor Schwenke said the awards reflected the students’ passion and skills.
“Our students’ success reflects their top-notch skills,” he said.
