ST LEONARDS WINS THE FIRST SURF COAST CULINARY SHIELD AT BLACK BULL TAPAS BAR
8/26/2009
Two top-rated local chefs clashed in a showcase of skills at the final of the Surf Coast Culinary Shield in front of celebrity judges and a packed house on Sunday 23rd August, with St Leonards Head Chef Michael O’Hanlon narrowly claiming victory.

Celebrity chef and guest judge Adrian Richardson, of La Luna Bistro, said the competition was incredibly tight and the outstanding dishes served up were a tribute to the talent and produce the Surf Coast has to offer.

Chef O’Hanlon and runner-up Chef Troy Lister from the Beach Hotel battled their way through the heats to impress diners and qualify for the final. The finalists were given the same ingredients, menu and kitchen, and challenged to serve up their best culinary creations to the judging panel and guests.

Celebrity judges:

• Adrian Richardson – Head Chef, La Luna Bistro, Melbourne (as seen on ‘Masterchef’, ‘Ready Steady Cook’, ‘Fresh’, ‘Jamie’s Kitchen’ and more)
• Peter Hitchener - Channel 9 Newsreader, TV personality and Barwon Health Foundation Patron
• Jeff Whalley - Geelong Advertiser Food Journalist
• Paula Kontelj – BayFM host and personality

The sold-out event was hosted by BayFM’s Mark Hyland at the Black Bull Tapas Bar on Sunday 23rd of August. Over 80 lucky guests enjoyed four sumptuous courses and outstanding, local wine in support of the Geelong Hospital Appeal.

The community has rallied in support of both the event and the Appeal, with tickets selling out fast. It is thanks to several local businesses that the event was such a success. Special mention should be made of. Leura Park Estate, who provided wine for the finals while PFD Food Services and Huon Seafoods donated the raw ingredients for the dinner.

Gavin Seidel, Executive Director of the Barwon Health Foundation, said money raised would go toward purchasing vital services and equipment for Barwon Health. “We have seen outstanding support for this fantastic new event, bringing the community together to celebrate local food and wine, and get behind the Geelong Hospital Appeal.”