2020 Apprentice Butcher of the Year Bonnie Ewan talks about her journey into butchery and being a woman in not one but two male dominated industries - first foodservice and now butchery.
A Trailblazer in a Traditional Industry
At just 25 years old, Bonnie Ewan is making her mark in two traditionally male-dominated industries as a professional butcher and chef. She serves as 2IC at Lucas Meats in Bronte and was named Apprentice Butcher of the Year in September 2020. Bonnie's journey is particularly significant because she is the first woman butcher to work at Lucas Meats, an established family-run business in the Eastern Suburbs.
Embracing Precision and Creativity
Bonnie's transition from being a chef for seven years to a butcher came naturally to her, thanks to her pre-existing knife skills. She found that being a chef and a butcher complemented each other well. The combination of her culinary expertise and her role in butchery allows her to offer detailed advice to customers, recommend different cuts of meat, and explain how to cook them effectively.
Winning Accolades and Overcoming Challenges
Bonnie's journey to becoming Apprentice Butcher of the Year involved winning the state title against 16 competitors and then competing against other state winners in precision cutting, theory, and live demonstrations. She acknowledges the physical challenges of butchery, which involves heavy lifting and repetitive work. However, she persevered to prove her capabilities.
Creative Possibilities in Butchery
Butchery is an age-old profession, but Bonnie sees it as a space for creativity. She believes that butchery has evolved to be more creative and innovative recently, providing an opportunity for women to excel. She, along with the Lucas Meats team, is focused on exploring creative ideas and recipes in butchery.
Encouraging Women to Explore Butchery
Bonnie encourages more women to consider butchery as a career, emphasizing the fun and creativity it offers. She believes that women can leverage their skills and excel in the industry. While recognizing that butchery might not be for everyone, Bonnie encourages those interested to give it a try and discover the enjoyable aspects of the profession.
A Message of Empowerment
Through her achievements and experience, Bonnie Ewan sends a powerful message about breaking stereotypes and pursuing a career in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her story serves as an inspiration for those looking to carve their own path in any industry.