Newcastle’s rising culinary stars will have the chance to showcase their skills as the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025.
The regional cook-offs will take place between June and July, with Newcastle hosting one of the two New South Wales heats.
The competitor with the highest score from the Newcastle and Grafton rounds will secure a place in the Grand Final in September at Sydney’s Fine Food Australia event, where the best young chefs from across the region will battle for the title of Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year.
The prestigious competition, which has been a launching pad for young chefs since 1965, is open to apprentice and junior chefs aged 16 to 24 across Australia and New Zealand.
This year, contestants are competing for their share of an impressive $38,000 prize pool. The ultimate winner will receive an all-expenses-paid 14-day culinary trip to Singapore and Thailand, valued at $12,000, including work experience at a top restaurant.
Additional awards will be up for grabs, including Most Sustainable Practice, Most Creative Use of Nestlé Products, and the newly introduced Best Signature Dish Award, celebrating the personal styles and cultural influences of the competing chefs.
The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is more than just a competition, it’s an opportunity for young chefs to gain industry experience, mentorship, and career-shaping connections.
The competition has produced over 8,000 alumni, many of whom have gone on to work in world-renowned restaurants and compete on international culinary stages. Newcastle’s participants will be looking to follow in those footsteps and make their mark in the industry.
Entries for the 2025 competition are now open and will close on 16 May, 2025. Aspiring chefs in Newcastle and beyond are encouraged to take part in this incredible opportunity to gain exposure, refine their skills, and be part of one of the most prestigious culinary events in the region. For more information or to register, head to goldenchefs.com.au.
