Grant Parry has been named Queensland Chef of the Year, winning the prestigious title as well as cash, prizes and a trip to Sydney to compete in the national competition next year.
Grant is the Chef de Cuisine at the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast. He has worked at fine dining establishments around the world, including time with Peter Gilmore at Quay in Sydney, Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s in London and the Hilton in the Seychelles.
Head Judge Karen Doyle says Grant was an outstanding competitor. “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”.
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.
After two days of intense competition, the Grand Final was between Parry, Paul Humbert from Restaurant Dan Arnold, Sammuel Lee from The Queensland Club and Adam Coyne from dnata Catering. They had to cook two dishes from a mystery box of ingredients in front of the judges and huge crowd of cheering onlookers.
“This was a real test to see who could think on their feet and keep their cool under pressure,” says 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 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