On the weekend of 27 and 28 April, young chefs from around Southland took part in the Pure South Famous Young Chefs Degustation Luncheon which was held at the Southern Institute of Technology. The luncheon, in its fourth year, included canapés, and 5 courses with matching wines.

Over two days the students were mentored by chefs Mark Sycamore, Tony Smith, Steve Le Corre, Darren Wright, Quinn Ojala, and Cameron Davies, creating a pathway for further training and professional development using produce grown in Southland. 

Southland Boys' High School students Alex Winslade, Mitchell Armishaw, Caleb Tonkin, and Kaden Skeggs worked alongside the chefs to help prepare and serve the six-course luncheon. There was a fantastic atmosphere, and the afternoon was filled with laughter and the most divine food.

Our famous young chefs were excited to help at the luncheon, saying that the experience of meeting the chefs and being able to learn from them was something they would never forget. They also enjoyed making connections with the guests as they were serving the meals.

The funds raised will help to assist Southland Boys' High School to purchase new ovens for our catering room.