Young Maitland chef Ashleigh Handsaker is packing her bags for London after winning the Brett Graham Culinary Scholarship during the week.
The third year apprentice went knife-to-knife with Nicholas Sanderson and Tyler Swinkels in the final cook-off at the TAFE Hamilton campus, impressing the judges and securing the $10,000 cash prize, which covers her airfare and overseas accommodation.
Displaying untapped energy, impressive organisational skills in the kitchen, incredible talent on the plate and a thirst for the opportunity that awaits her, the Fratelli Roma Restaurant employee will now get the chance to work under the former Novocastrian at his highly-acclaimed establishment, The Ledbury.
The 21-year-old follows in the footsteps of previous victors Troy Rhoades Brown (Muse), Garreth Robbs (Bistro Molines), Chris Thornton (Restaurant Mason), George Mirosevich (Bare Chested Chef) and Josh Gregory (Muse), among others.
The Hunter Culinary Association (HCA), in conjunction with TAFE NSW, hosted the prestigious annual event in its milestone 20th year.
Originally, eight young guns cooked for their chance to hone their skills under the watchful eye of chef Graham.
But, it was then cut to three – Handsaker, Sanderson and Swinkels.
And, according to the judges, second and third place was even harder to split.
However, after a tough debate, Jimmy Joan’s apprentice Sanderson was named runner-up ahead of Emilio’s Swinkels.
Both took home prizes to help establish their careers.
Chief judge Tracey Amos (TAFE NSW), accompanied by Mount Pleasant chef and HCA deputy chair Kyle Whitbourne, former scholarship winner Mirosevich and NBN presenter Lauren Kempe, all commented on the incredible talent displayed by this year’s participants.
That sentiment was echoed by TAFE Newcastle commercial cookery head teacher Mark McManus.
“I am so proud of the high-standard of ability and passion demonstrated by each of our students,” he said.
“This scholarship is an incredible chance to learn from the best; and bring the knowledge and experience they learn overseas back to the region for us to enjoy and others to learn from.”
HCA chair Gus Maher was equally-impressed.
“The youngsters were terrific, again, this year,” he said.
“In saying that, we’re also delighted with what we achieve here with our partner TAFE NSW.
“Time and again, the Brett Graham scholars have repaid our investment handsomely, returning to the region with many now our emerging industry leaders.”
The Hunter Culinary Association is a not-for-profit organisation, offering a suite of scholarships and awards that support aspiring young chefs, apprentices and front-of-house professionals.
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