Meet Rhys: Artisan Baker & Photo Taker

Rhys Newling has been an artisan baker at Brasserie Bread in South Melbourne for over three years. When Rhys isn’t baking up a storm, he takes stunning photos of landscapes, concerts, and people. He also takes awesome behind-the-scenes shots at our bakery – you might have seen some of his snaps on our Instagram or blog. We chat to Rhys about his love of baking and photography.

How long have you been baking, and how did you become a baker?

I started my apprenticeship back in mid-2007 in a small bakery in Albury. I was 17 and really into bikes. Baking in the early hours gave me plenty of time in the afternoons to ride with my friends. I made the move to Melbourne about three years ago and it has really opened my eyes to amazing culture that is artisan baking in Australia.

What do you love about baking?

Baking is a hands-on job that lets you be creative and you never stop learning! I have always been fascinated that only a handful of ingredients can make so many different products using techniques that have been around for hundreds of years. It’s also a great feeling to see people enjoy something you have created.

What’s a tip or trick you’d share with a home baker who is just starting out?

Experiment, take your time, and letting the dough rest is the most important part of the baking process. Practice makes perfect! I will never get a perfect result the first time but by the third I will usually have success!

How did you get into photography?

I have had a camera for as long as I can remember! Photography is a great hobby to get into and I have had some great opportunities come out of it! You can see more of my photography here.

What’s your favourite thing about Brasserie Bread?

This is a hard question! But I would have to say my favorite thing is our use of single origin wheat grains. Not only does it produce unique and incredible products, but it also starts a very important discussion about where the raw ingredients in your food come from. It’s something I’m very passionate about.

Headline photo by Jack Bleasdale. All photos below by Rhys.