Photo credit: Maldon Bakery
After six years working as a medical secretary for a cardiologist, Bendigo local Sammi Lister decided it was time to pursue something she'd always loved: baking.
Today, she's a qualified baking graduate working as a pastry chef at Maldon Bakery, doing what she once only dreamed of turning into a career.
And the best part? She genuinely looks forward to going to work.
"This is a job I've always wanted to do," Sammi shared in a recent post by Maldon Bakery. "I get excited to come to work every morning."
It's a career change that began with a decision to return to study, followed by an unexpected opportunity on Instagram.
Born and raised in Bendigo, Sammi had worked across several industries before finding her way into baking.
Although she enjoyed her previous roles, her interest in food had always been there. Food Technology and Hospitality were her favourite subjects at school, and cooking and baking remained a big part of her life outside work.
After six years in her medical secretary role, she knew she was ready for something different.
"I left my job and decided to pursue a new career," she said.
Sammi enrolled in the Certificate III in Baking at Bendigo TAFE, drawn to the course's practical training and the opportunity to develop skills she could use in a professional bakery.
It was a significant change, but one she was ready to embrace.
For Sammi, studying at Bendigo TAFE was about much more than learning new recipes.
While she was already a confident home baker, she quickly discovered that working in a commercial bakery required a different approach.
"The training really helped me, as it is not like cooking at home. You need to be quick on your feet, organised and have really good time management," she explained.
"If you have a product in the oven you move onto the next product and so forth. Clean as you go and think ahead."
These practical lessons would prove invaluable once she entered the workforce.
Sammi also credits her teachers for making the experience both enjoyable and rewarding.
"The teachers were so inspiring and I learnt so much from them. Their teaching has really helped me in my current workplace."
She particularly enjoyed the variety of each class, with new challenges and opportunities to build her confidence.
"Every class was different and brought surprises – no two classes were the same."
By the time she completed her qualification in June 2026, Sammi had gained not only technical baking skills but also a better understanding of the pace, organisation and teamwork required in a professional kitchen.
Sometimes, career opportunities come from unexpected places.
Shortly after completing her course, Sammi came across a post from Maldon Bakery on Instagram. She recognised one of the bakers as someone she'd studied alongside at Bendigo TAFE and decided to leave a comment mentioning that she was nearing completion of her baking qualification.
What happened next took her by surprise.
"The owner sent me a message saying, 'Please come into the bakery; I would like to meet you.'"
Sammi attended an interview, completed a job trial and was offered the position.
Just like that, the skills she'd spent months developing were being put to work in a real bakery.
Now working two days a week at Maldon Bakery, Sammi's days are busy, varied and filled with the kind of hands-on work she loves.
Her mornings begin by checking the display cabinets, fridges and freezers to work out what needs preparing or replenishing. From there, it's a steady rhythm of baking pastries, preparing cake mixtures and creams, and ensuring the bakery is stocked for customers.
It's a fast-paced environment, but that's exactly what appeals to her.
"I love the fast-paced environment of the bakery, creating beautiful products, seeing the bakery full of customers is so rewarding, and I work with an incredible team!"
Maldon Bakery has also celebrated Sammi's enthusiasm, introducing her to its community and encouraging customers to try her Lemon Basque Cheesecake.
For Sammi, seeing customers enjoy the products she helps create is one of the most satisfying parts of her new career.
Completing her qualification and securing employment in the industry are achievements Sammi is particularly proud of.
But she's already thinking about what might come next.
One day, she'd love to establish her own home bakery specialising in loaded New York-style cookies, brownies, catering boxes, picnic hampers and even high tea boxes delivered for customers to enjoy at home.
For now, she's enjoying every opportunity to develop her skills and gain experience.
Her advice to anyone thinking about studying baking or changing careers is simple.
"Absolutely go for it! You have nothing to lose – only gains!"
And for those wondering whether it's too late to start something new, Sammi has a message worth remembering.
"It is proof that you're never too old to start something new or have a fresh start."
Looking back on her experience at Bendigo TAFE, she describes it as "absolutely rewarding and worth it!"
Whether you're exploring your first career or considering a change, practical training can help you develop the skills and confidence to take the next step.
Discover the Certificate III in Baking at Bendigo TAFE and explore where a career in baking could take you.
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