Hawke gave a demonstration class as a fundraiser for the Forbes Men's Shed, sharing his knowledge of European pastry and particularly his work to develop gluten-free options.

Delivering a gluten-free pastry with taste and texture equal to traditional pastry is something Richard has been working on for a number of years now.

Richard is the son of George and Jean Hawke with many family connections here including his uncle Neil who is a member of the Men's Shed.

He moved to Europe some 10 years ago to further his career and now divides his time between his pastry shops in Slovakia and travelling the world to teach pastry masterclasses.

He was in Australia to run a masterclass in Sydney when the opportunity for the Forbes event came up.

The local audience was eager to watch the professional at work and sample the delicate new take on the Paris-Brest he created.

Norm Haley expressed the Forbes Men's Shed's thanks to Richard and the Hawke family for their generosity in running the event.

"It was a really special day, Richard was superb," Mr Haley said.

"The Men's Shed is so grateful and very pleased with the outcome."

Mr Haley also thanked Forbes Shire Council and the Men's Shed members for their work to see the event come together.

The event raised funds for the brand new Forbes Men's Shed, the long-term project to give the local organisation a permanent home of its own is nearing completion.