The annual the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award competition is back. The award is an exciting opportunity for young chefs to not only elevate their culinary skills and open doors to new career opportunities, but also be in the running to win over $30,000 in prizes.
From May, more than 120 participants are expected to compete in metro and regional cook-offs across Australia and New Zealand to become a finalist.
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.
In addition to being crowned the Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year, the winner will also walk away with a 14-day all-expenses-paid trip to the Worldchefs Congress in Singapore valued at $10,000.
“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 Federation and NZChefs, we are proud to support the future of our hospitality leaders,” Nestlé Professional executive chef and Golden chef judge, Elke Travers said.
Since 1965, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award competition has provided a springboard for more than 8,000 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. 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 in Sydney, 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.”
Entry is open to chefs aged 16-24 and so long as the eligibility criteria is met, they will be guaranteed a place to compete in the regional heats. Entry is free with prizes to be won at every stage.
Entries for the Nestlé Golden Chef Hat Awards are now open and will close at 11:59pm on Monday 6 May 2024. For more information or to enter click here.