Two Darwin-based junior chefs proved themselves too hot for the rest of the competition at the annual Nestlé’s Golden Chef’s Hat regional finals at the Palmerston campus this week.
Charles Darwin University’s Commercial Cookery and Bakery Division, along with Nestlé and the Australian Culinary Federation, hosted the Nestlé’s Golden Chef’s Hat regional finals on Wednesday.
Eight teams from across the Northern Territory competed for the top prize, with Skycity chefs, Arron Elmi and Benjamin Morrison claiming top honours for their culinary expertise.
The pair produced a variety of mouth-watering dishes which found favour with the judging panel. Their culinary creativity included creations such as the pan-seared barramundi on a herb cucumber linguine and their chocolate kit-kat cake, coffee panacotta and caramelised banana.
Along with the watchful eye of judges, several representatives from prominent hospitality bodies across the NT watched keenly for the next big talent.
Arron and Benjamin will represent the NT at the three-day all expenses paid national finals in Melbourne in October at the end of which the winning team will be awarded $15,000 to be used for culinary education.
The Nestlé Golden Chef's Hat Award is dedicated to the development of junior and apprentice chefs in Australia. The competition contributes to Australia's reputation for cuisine innovation and excellence and opens doors for our next great chefs.