At Peninsula Villages our commitment to providing the highest quality care extends to every aspect of our services, including the meals we serve every day to residents. At the heart of this endeavour is Stephan Blant, the Peninsula Villages esteemed Food Services and Catering Manager, affectionately known as “The French Chef.”
Stephan is a third-generation chef hailing from the Alsace region in France, a renowned culinary pocket nestled between Switzerland and Germany. His passion for food has been a lifelong journey, beginning in his family’s kitchens and continuing even as he pursued studies in accountancy. Stephan’s culinary expertise is richly diverse, influenced by his time in the south of France, where he embraced Mediterranean flavours and techniques. His journey brought him to Australia in 2011, where he worked in prestigious resorts and high-quality restaurants before finding his true calling in aged care when he started a family.
Since joining Peninsula Villages, Stephan has been driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact on the lives of the Village residents. He takes immense pride in his work, knowing that the meals he and his team prepare play a crucial role in the well-being and happiness of those in his care. Stephan believes wholeheartedly in Peninsula Villages’ mission to provide the best for residents, and he works tirelessly to ensure that this standard is met every day.
Under Stephan’s leadership, the catering department has flourished. What began as a modest operation has grown into a dynamic team, now comprising five kitchens, 15 serveries, and 43 dedicated staff members. The department continues to expand, driven by Stephan’s vision and the ever-growing needs of their community.
His culinary offerings are as diverse as they are nutritious. The department boasts an extensive six-week menu, which changes twice a year to reflect the seasonal delights of winter and summer. In addition to the main menu, residents have access to an alternate menu and a 24/7 snack menu, ensuring that their dietary preferences and needs are always met. All menus are meticulously reviewed by a dietitian to ensure they meet the highest standards of health and nutrition.
A testament to the department’s excellence is the consistent achievement of an A-rating in the NSW Food Safety Authority audit. This accomplishment, while expected by Stephan and Peninsula Villages, is no small feat. It is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and attention to detail exhibited by every member of their catering team. Stephan is quick to acknowledge the collaborative effort with the Care Department, whose support is invaluable in maintaining these high standards.
Looking ahead, Stephan and his team are committed to upholding the high standards that Peninsula Villages is known for. As the catering department continues to grow, so too will the opportunities to innovate and enhance the dining experience for our residents. Stephan’s passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication ensure that the future of food services at Peninsula Villages is as bright as ever.