He’d certainly be a great teacher, especially considering his high-flying pedigree in the world of professional baking, and the third place finish he just served up in Paris.

Tilden earned a place in the final six of the illustrious Masters de la Boulangerie in February, competing in the ‘Nutritional Bread Category’, and proved the talents of Australian baking as he took the bronze ‘chocolates’.

The podium finish for Tilden was the culmination of four years of competitive baking for the Novocastrian baker, who contested the Louis Lesaffre Cup in 2014/15 and the Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie in 2016.

It’s the podium finish in France that is the cherry on top of the baking dish however, Tilden said.

“I am honoured to represent my country, the experience is one I’ll remember forever,” he said. “To be able to be a positive role model for my kids and students is my proudest moment to date.”

The Australian Baking Team, of which Tilden is a member of, was especially proud of his triumphs at the Masters de la Boulangerie.

According to the team behind Tilden, his third place performance has confirmed Australia’s strong talent in international baking contests.

There were none prouder than Brett Noy, Tilden’s head coach.

“Dean has competed against the best in the world, not only has he held his own but has lead the way in both skill and professionalism,” Noy said.

“The Australian Baking industry is so proud of what Dean has achieved.

“He has put Australian baking on the world stage and we congratulate him for his amazing achievements.”

Launched in 2010, the Masters de la Boulangerie is a global competition for exceptional baking individuals.

The 18-person tournament is the final part of a four-year cycle that begins with the Louis Lesaffre Cup and continues with the Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie.

Peter Bienefelt from the Netherlands was the overall winner in Tilden’s category.