He was awarded the silver medal at the World Skills Australia VET in Schools competition in Brisbane.

Mr Graham is studying first year hospitality at Launceston College and puts his skills into practice every Thursday at Elcies Cafe Restaurant, on the college campus.

In Brisbane he underwent a three-day competition schedule with testing in all aspects of food and beverage service.

Launceston College hospitality co-ordinator Gaylene Allen said there was only a four-point difference between first and second prize.

"Anthony did very well, there were a series of challenges over the three days and they were marked on each of those skills," Mrs Allen said.

Mr Graham said he was nervous at the national event, which encompassed all VET industries from automotive to viticulture.

"It was challenging but good, I was quite confident in the skills that Gaylene has taught me though," Mr Graham said.

"The actual competition was quite intense but it gave me some insight into the industry."

Mr Graham works at Elcies for lunch service every Thursday but coming out of winter the restaurant will be open for full service.