Sou’West Brewery Torquay head chef Alex McIntosh wins Bocuse d’Or Australia Golden Knife

A Torquay microbrewery’s chef has detailed the secret to his food shining alongside an array of beers — and he’s set to take on the world.

A chef from a Torquay restaurant will get the chance to flex his skills in the world’s most prestigious culinary competition after winning a coveted award.

Alex McIntosh, head chef at Torquay’s Sou’West Brewery, has taken out the Bocuse d’Or Australia Golden Knife trophy, and will represent the country at the Bocuse d’Or Asia Pacific later this year.

Head chef Alex McIntosh from Sou'West Brewery at Torquay. Picture: Alan Barber

Canadian-born Mr McIntosh said he wanted to showcase ingredients from the Greater Geelong region in his dishes, prepared alongside commis chef Sam Heritage.

“It was important to me to highlight ingredients from the Geelong, Torquay, Bellarine and Surf Coast areas,” Mr McIntosh said.

“I use locally foraged ingredients and also product made by local artisanal producers.”

Mr McIntosh said it is a “dream come true” to represent Australia at the next competition.

“I have been working towards this for a long time and it has been a very important part of my life,” Mr McIntosh said.

Bocuse d'Or Australia 2022 winner Alex McIntosh and his commis chef Sam Heritage from Sou'West Brewery Torquay.

“To now be part of the elite few – I am very humbled that I will be included in that group of people from around the world to compete in the Bocuse d’Or.”

Bocuse d’Or Australia president Tom Milligan said he was “blown away” by the talent on display at the contest.

“I congratulate everyone who competed … and want to thank the sponsors, partners, judges and MCs who brought the event to life,” Mr Milligan said.

“This was our biggest ever Bocuse d’Or Australia competition and we see a great future ahead for Alex and Team Australia.”

Originally published as Sou’West Brewery Torquay head chef Alex McIntosh wins Bocuse d’Or Australia Golden Knife