Hobart chef’s skill in two-course challenge may win him dream trip to Shanghai

CHEF Robin Kelly is one step closer to a dream culinary trip to China after being named southern Tasmania’s chef of the year.

The Southern section of the Chef of the Year Competition at TasTAFE Drysdale campus, winner Wrestpoint's Robin Kelly, left, and his assistant Kelsea House

CHEF Robin Kelly is one step closer to a dream culinary trip to China after being named southern Tasmania’s chef of the year.

Mr Kelly won the Tasmanian Hospitality Association TasTAFE award after going up against five other chefs from a variety of southern Tasmanian restaurants, hotels and cafes.

Robin Kelly in action during the competition.

They were required to cook a two-course meal using Huon Aquaculture salmon and Flinders Island lamb.

Tasmanian Hospitality general manager Steve Old said the event was a great way for chefs to showcase their skills.

Jessica Howe was named the winner of the northern Tasmanian competition on June 15 and the two will face off for the state title on August 24.

The winner gets a trip to Shanghai as part of this year’s Savour Tasmania event.

That event is part of Tourism Tasmania’s Greater China Travel Mission, showcasing Tasmanian food and beverages internationally.

A chef at Wrest Point Casino, Mr Kelly said he had worked in the UK previously but was open to a possible move overseas.

“It’s a good opportunity, I’m not a young chef any more but even at my age it’s still good to be recognised and if I am successful to go over to China it could open up jobs over there as well,” he said.

Originally published as Hobart chef’s skill in two-course challenge may win him dream trip to Shanghai