Get ready for a slice of success

By Melissa Donchi
THE Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph rolled into Healesville last week.
The competition’s judges visited to take a look at what AJs Bakery had to offer in the way of everyone’s favourite block of vanilla custard.
While owner Tony Borg wasn’t giving away any of his secrets, he did take the time to pose with some of the bakery’s creations.
“This is the second time we’ve entered the competition,” Mr Borg said.
“I guess you could say we’ve been making vanilla slices ever since we started here in Healesville.”
The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph is no ordinary competition as last year’s winner can attest.
Tatura Bakery near Shepparton went from selling 250 slices to more than 1500 a week.
“It’s definitely a worthwhile business venture,” competition organiser Mark Wilson said. “It makes good business sense to win.”
The popular competition is now in its 10th year since it was launched in 1998 by then Premier Jeff Kennett.
Organised each year by a dedicated team, the goal of finding the perfect vanilla slice has taken this group of volunteers across the country.
Mr Wilson said this year they had travelled more than 3000 kilometres in six days.
“It’s a big job finding the perfect vanilla slice,” he said.
“Volunteers like myself help organise the competition but we leave the judging to the industry professionals.”
And with strict guidelines it seems not everyone is deemed qualified to understand what a vanilla slice should be like.
The entry criteria requires no less than six vanilla slices to be presented in a square or rectangle shape.
The official entry form says that ‘when tasted the slice should reveal a custard with a creamy smooth texture and a balance of vanilla taste with a crisp, crunchy pastry topped with a smooth and shiny glaze.’
The winner will be announced on Vanilla Slice Day on Friday, 31 August in Ouyen.