General News
24 July, 2025
Jake earns recognition
TERANG Country Bakery’s Jake Proctor has earned recognition as a role model for Aboriginal youth thanks to his dedicated career progression.
Baker Jake Proctor took out the award for Aboriginal Young Male at the 2025 Gunditjmara NAIDOC Awards.
Mr Proctor said he was not sure how he had been nominated, but was proud to know his efforts had been recognised.
“It’s for finishing my apprenticeship and being a good role model for the youth, showing dedication and commitment,” he said.
“I was so surprised when I found out.
“I didn’t expect to win anything like that but it’s super nice.”
Mr Proctor, who has been learning the ropes at Terang Country Bakery for around five years now, said he has been enjoying following his interests into a career where he can learn under award-winning owner Brad Burkitt and the bakery’s talented staff.
“I was always interested in baking during school, just cooking stuff,” he said.
“I was lucky enough to get a job with Terang Country Bakery, doing work placement initially before starting my apprenticeship as soon as I finished Year 12.
“It’s been tough but it’s been good.
“I really enjoy it.”
Mr Proctor said he was proud his efforts had been recognised as establishing him as a positive role model for First Nations youth.
“I don’t think there are many, to be honest,” he said.
“I think I’m one of the lucky few who have been given an opportunity, given it a crack and stuck it out.”
Other award recipients were:
Youth of the Year (Female): Alkira Couzens;
Youth of the Year (Male): Kobi Chatfield;
Community Member (Female): Ashlee Bennett;
Community Member (Female): Jess Chatfield;
Community Member (Male): Levi Geebung;
Elder of the Year (Female): Aunty Tracy Roach;
Elder of the Year (Female): Aunty Roslyn Britton; and
Elder of the Year (Male): Uncle Robert Lowe Snr
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