Presentation reminds of caterers' friend

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 315, 28 November 1989, Page 5

Presentation reminds of caterers' friend

A presentation of cook books covering various subjects were presented last week to Captain Ainsley Watson RNZCT on behalf of the catering wing of the School of transport and Catering (STC) by Mrs Ella Burt, wife of a former school catering instructor the late Warrant officer class two Barney Burt RNZCT. Former students of Barney Burt now senior catering instructors themselves along with ATG Chief of Staff Lieutenant Colonel Clive Sinclair RNZCT and school staff were present at a morning tea for Mrs Burt. W02 Burt came to New Zealand after answering an advertisement in a British newspaper placed in by the New Zealand Ministry of Defence. The Army was looking for an Army Catering Instructor. Previously W02 Burt worked as an undercover agent for the partisans in France during World War II and was a member of the first British parachute

drop into France shortly before D Day. The books are a collection used by W02 Burt which cover subjects from menu terminology, bakery to gourmet cooking. The books will be placed on display in the foyer of the Catering Wing of STC which will allow future students on course at the school to compare today's teachings to that of former years. Lieutenant Colonel Sinclair took the opportunity to describe the Late Barney Burt's colourful character and described Barney as a friend as well as an instructor of the catering school. W02 Burt held various appointments during his time in the Army as catering instructor from 1962-67 and kitchen manager of the junior ranks mess from 1973-77. W02 Barney Burt - chef Le Patissier - (Master Baker) passed away on 8 March this year and the books will be a fitting memory to one of the catering schools popular instructors.