Steve knows recipe for success

Making the cut: Grafton apprentice chef Steven Evans has just returned from Sydney where he helped his country teammates topple their city cousins.

GRAFTON-based apprentice chef Steven Evans has just returned from a hectic few days in Sydney where he proved he could cut it with the best.

Steven competed in the NSW City vs Country Apprentice Chef Challenge, and brought home a winner's smile, prizes and a larder full of experiences.

Steven is a third-year chef, employed at Victoria's Restaurant Wine and Bar, at the Quality Inn.

Grafton College of TAFE head teacher Lyndel Bailey said Steven had shown a lot of potential in his time at TAFE, so he was encouraged to apply and take part in the challenge.

Steven said once you applied there was a tough selection process just to be selected to take part.

“I had to submit a resume, documenting my experience and explain why I wanted to be a part of the challenge,” he said.

“It was a real honour just to be chosen for the country team.”

Steven joined the six-person country team, made up of apprentice chefs from Wagga Wagga, Eden, Harrington, Taree and Jugiong for a very busy couple of days, with escorted tours to Belmondo Restaurant at The Rocks to meet the head chef, Electrolux Kitchens for Masterclass demonstrations and the Sydney Fish Markets, before the competition day.

“The competition was held at Jordan's Seafood Restaurant in Sydney, where we had to prepare two canapés and an entree, a main and dessert, and after a long day, my country team came up winners,” Steven said.

“Apart from a great learning experience, the competition was an opportunity to meet some of the top chefs, industry people and other contestants, and build my network, as you never know where good contacts will lead.”

The City vs Country Apprentice Chef Challenge is a team event, promoted and run by Sydney-based hospitality chain, J&J O'Brien P/L, which owns many elite Sydney venues such as Jacksons on George, the Belvedere Hotel, the Watershed Hotel and many others.