The 2024 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award has narrowed it down to just 12 grand finalists, who will battle it out for the top spot at the grand final held at Fine-Food Australia in Melbourne.
All the chefs in the competition were between 16 and 24 years old and have been called the ‘cream of the crop’ in their chosen field.
Competing chefs each created a two-course menu comprising a main and dessert dish – both of which were marked by a panel of leading industry judges according to globally recognised culinary standards.
Representing New Zealand at the 2024 grand final will be the North Island winner, Emily Morgan, and the South Island winner, Shayani Withange Don.
Last year, Joosje Bouman and Lilly Boles won the top spot at their respective regional heats in New Zealand and went on to compete at the Grand Finals held at Fine Food Australia in Sydney. Reflecting on their experiences, both Bouman and Boles said the rewards gained from competing were invaluable. Regardless of experience level, they added that every aspiring chef can shine at the event.
Regional prizes included a Solidteknics equipment package and KOI Knife. New this year has been the Most Innovative Use of Coffee Award, which was presented to the chef who has demonstrated the most delicious use of Buondi Coffee Beans in their main or dessert courses.
The 2024 Golden Chef of the Year will receive a travel and work experience package to the World Chef’s Congress 2024 in Singapore. Other awards will also be presented, such as the Most Creative Use of a Nestlé Ingredient Award and the Most Sustainable Practice Award.
The Buondi All Rounder Award will present a $1,000 cash prize for the chef who excels in harmoniously working with the team, actively supports others, communicates effectively, and contributes positively to the team’s performance and dynamics. The Maggi Best Savoury Dish and Nestlé Docello Best Dessert Dish Award will present a $2,500 cash prize as well.
The Nestlé Golden Chefs Hat Award is now in its 59th year and has supported emerging talent from across Australia and New Zealand in launching their careers. Two New Zealanders, Sam Heaven and Gabby Sanders, have previously won the top award.
To read more about the 2024 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award, click here.
