Grant Parry, chef de cuisine at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, has been named Queensland Chef of the Year for 2023. Aside from the prestigious title, Parry won cash, prizes and a trip to Sydney to compete in the national competition next year.
Parry has led the kitchens at RACV Royal Pines Resort for the last decade. Earlier in his career he worked at fine dining establishments around the world, including time with Peter Gilmore at Quay in Sydney, with Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s in London and for the Hilton in the Seychelles.
The competition had over 100 entries from professional chefs throughout Queensland. The top 28 competed live at the Brisbane Convention Centre as part of the annual Food & Hospitality Queensland trade exhibition.
Head judge Karen Doyle said Parry was an outstanding competitor among many talented chefs.
“This was his second time in the grand final and third time competing, and he blew us away with his meticulous preparation, creativity, and the flavour of his dishes.
“All the finalists put in solid performances. It is amazing to see the increasing sophistication of the dining scene in Queensland and this was reflected in the dishes being put up for the competition”.
After two days of intense competition, the grand final saw Parry go head to head with Sammuel Lee from The Queensland Club, Paul Humbert from Restaurant Dan Arnold, and Adam Coyne from dnata Catering. They had to cook two dishes from a mystery box of ingredients in front of the judges and a crowd of onlookers.
“This was a real test to see who could think on their feet and keep their cool under pressure,” explained Doyle.
“The mystery box gave the chefs many options, and all four performed phenomenally well.”
The Queensland Chef of the Year is one of the most prestigious and rewarding competitions for chefs in the state. Director Peter Wright says it was made possible by generous supporters including Unox Ovens, Love Buds, Cookers Bulk Oil Systems, Simco and Global Hospitality Retail.
“This year’s event drew huge interest. By running it in the middle of the popular Food & Hospitality exhibition, we ensure it is at the centre of our industry. Our compere, Glenn Flood kept everyone fully informed.
“We were also lucky to have top chef judges including Karen Doyle, Caleb Bilewicz, Gary Johnson, Paul Rifkin, Dan Arnold and Shane Keighley.”
The national competition will be held as part of Foodservice Australia in Sydney from 19-21 May. The Queensland Chef of the Year will return next year from 4-5 August. For more information, visit www.foodandhospitality.com.au