Adelaide Convention Centre (ACC) is cementing its reputation as a breeding ground for some of the nation's finest young chefs with one of its apprentice chefs earning the right to represent Australia in Paris at the Jeunes Commis Le Chaine Rotisseurs Competition.
Shasta Bell, 22, has beaten a strong field of young chefs from around the country and will travel to France in September to compete against the world's best in this prestigious competition that is dedicated to preserving the traditions of fine dining.
Her win follows a series of culinary success stories for the Centre including ACC Chef Melanie Gowers, 29, taking out the national Lexus Young Chef of the Year Award in August and Regattas Bistro winning Best Modern Australian award at the Restaurant and Catering South Australian Natural Gas 2007 Awards for Excellence.
"Food is an essential part of the convention experience and Adelaide Convention Centre prides itself on serving meals that would appear on the plates of some of the best restaurants in the world," ACC Chief Executive Alec Gilbert says.
"Our chefs learn their profession in a supportive and innovative environment where they are mentored and encouraged to create meals that are world-class both in taste and presentation. With our service and facilities matching the quality of our food, it is no wonder Adelaide is regarded as Australia's Convention City.
"On behalf of Adelaide Convention Centre, I would like to congratulate Shasta on this momentous achievement and wish her all the very best in France as she represents Australia."
To win the award, Ms Bell was given a mystery basket containing seasonal ingredients which she used to design and present a three-course menu for four people, all within four hours.
Passionate about cooking, Ms Bell said she was delighted to win the award and was looking forward to the international competition in Paris.
"It is a fantastic opportunity helping me to achieve my goal of becoming the best chef possible, by both working with top chefs and the finest ingredients and produce available," she said.
"Adelaide Convention Centre is a great place to work and I am thrilled that I have been given this opportunity to further my skills and knowledge."
In the past, Ms Bell has won a number of culinary awards including first place at the South Australian Restaurant Champions of the Year (Australian Culinary Federation Team Competitions) and second place at the Nestle Golden Chef's Hat Award (Australian Culinary Federation).
Further information: Jodie van Deventer, Deventer PR & Communications, on 0427 408 588 or jodie@deventer.com.au
