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The Future Is Served: Ashleigh Handsaker Crowned 2026 Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year

 

Bold flavours, flawless execution and years of dedication paid off for 23 year-old Chef Ashleigh Handsaker from NSW Regional who has been crowned 2026 Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year. Competing against 11 of Australia and New Zealand's most talented young chefs, Ashleigh's three-course menu brought together a range of culinary styles and exceptional technique to earn her the 2026 title. From creative uses of native ingredients to sustainable cooking practices, this year's finalists showcased the future of hospitality. See the full results and meet the rising culinary stars behind them.

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Developing the Next Generation of Chefs since 1965

 

For over 60 years, we’ve given young chefs the opportunity to kick start their careers in the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award competition.
The culinary competition provides a platform for emerging talent to benchmark themselves against their peers, learn from leading industry experts and experience the opportunity of a lifetime.

At a Glance

61
Year Legacy
8k+
Participants
since inception
12
Regional Finals 
across ANZ
11
Grand finalist
chefs
1
Nestlé Golden
Chef of the year
$28k
in prizes 
to be won

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