Maitland Vale sous chef Ashleigh Handsaker has been crowned the NSW regional winner in the prestigious Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award, securing a place in the national grand final this September.
The 22-year-old talent, based at Iron Gate Kitchen in Pokolbin, impressed judges with her creativity, skill and bold use of flavour at the regional cook-off held at TAFE NSW Ourimbah.
Now celebrating its 60th year, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is Australia’s longest-running culinary competition for young chefs, providing invaluable industry recognition and career-making opportunities.
Ashleigh’s win marks the fourth time she has taken out the regional title, cementing her reputation as one of the Hunter’s brightest emerging chefs.
Her menu wowed judges with a perfectly cooked beef rump served with braised leek puree, celeriac pavé, pickled and creamed celeriac, charred English spinach, and a rich red wine onion jus.
Dessert followed with an indulgent dark chocolate and wattle seed crémeux paired with a dark chocolate macadamia shell, alongside a spiced pumpkin and stout cream infused with bay leaf and olive oil.
Judges from the Australian Culinary Federation praised Ashleigh’s refined techniques and attention to detail, describing her dishes as both sophisticated and beautifully executed.
The competition also saw Newcastle’s Nicholas Sanderson recognised with the new regional Best Signature Dish Award, highlighting the strength of local culinary talent across the Hunter and Central Coast.
Ashleigh will now represent regional NSW in the grand final, competing against 12 other finalists from across Australia and New Zealand at Sydney’s Fine Food Australia in September.
The winner will be crowned 2025 Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year, taking home a 14-day international culinary experience in Singapore and Thailand, valued at $12,000, as part of a prize pool worth $38,000.
The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award Grand Final will take place live in Sydney this September during Fine Food Australia. For more information about the competition, visit www.goldenchefs.com.au.
