Nestlé Professional celebrates 59 years of supporting the next generation of Australian and New Zealand chefs, with over $30,000 in prizes to be won.
The opportunity to be crowned the Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year is back. This is a chance for young chefs to win an incredible 14-day international culinary experience in Singapore valued at $10,000^.
Australia’s longest-running culinary competition for emerging chefs, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award, has launched for 2024.
Since 1965, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award competition has provided a springboard for more than 8000 young chefs to advance their careers. It is a unique, career-making opportunity for Australian and New Zealand apprentice and junior chefs to put their talent to the test and gain industry recognition.
From May, more than 120 participants are expected to compete in metro and regional cook-offs across Australia and New Zealand, for only one contestant to be crowned the Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year. Entry is free with prizes at every stage.
In September, 12 finalists will battle it out at the Grand Final at Melbourne’s Fine Food Australia Expo. Held over two heats in front of a live audience, the national winner will be named the Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year at the awards ceremony the following day, with special industry guests in attendance.
Nestlé Executive Chef and Golden Chef judge Elke Travers says: “For almost 60 years, Nestlé Professional has been committed to developing the careers and confidence of young chefs through the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award. Together with our partners, the Australian Culinary Foundation and NZChefs, we are proud to support the future of our hospitality leaders.
“More than just a competition, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award provides young chefs with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build friendships and realise their ambition, while expanding their professional and personal horizons,” Chef Elke said.
Careers will be made
The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is an exciting opportunity for young chefs to elevate their culinary skills, open doors to new career opportunities, and make life-long memories.
Participants will benefit from the mentorship and support provided by leading industry professionals, including globally accredited chefs, judges, and coaches.
Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat 2021 national winner and Sous Chef at Chef’s Table Kimberly Tang said: “Competing in the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is an unforgettable experience. It provides that rare opportunity to gain access to amazing chefs, test your skills and get creative in a supportive environment, while also making meaningful industry friendships.”
Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award 2008 and 2009 national finalist and Executive Chef at the Melbourne Cricket Ground Dylan Sanding said: “This competition helped me build the foundations I needed to establish myself as a chef, while opening doors for my future. It’s an invaluable platform for young chefs and provided me with industry exposure and the opportunity to build networks within the foodservice industry.”
More than just a competition
This year, as part of Nestlé Professional’s commitment to supporting a thriving foodservice industry, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award will extend its support of young chefs through a new partnership with The Burnt Chef Project. This not-for-profit organisation provides education and resources to support the mental health and wellbeing of those working in the foodservice industry.
“We understand that the role of a chef can be demanding and stressful. Providing access to mental health support means that chefs have access to the resources and guidance they need to thrive both professionally and personally,” Chef Elke said.
The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is also supported by its Nestlé Professional food and beverage brands, Buondi, Maggi and Nestlé Docello.
Entries for the Nestlé Golden Chef Hat Awards are now open and will close at 11:59pm on 6 May 2024.
