Culinary trade in very good hands

Some of the prizewinners that impressed the judges

There is a very bright future for culinary apprenticeships in Ireland with the national commis chef apprenticeship programme providing a vital opportunity for those who wish to pursue an earn and learn pathway on their career journey, Irish Hotels’ Federation CEO, Tim Fenn, has told a gathering in Killarney.

He was speaking at the culinary extravaganza at the Great Southern Hotel which brought together 52 competitors from across the country to showcase their skills and compete in six display competitions and five live cooking competitions.

The highlight of the showcase was the presentation of 21 awards, recognising excellence in various categories.

Leading the charge was Melissa Cahillane whose culinary mastery secured her the coveted title in the Iles Flottante Live competition and others to wow the judges included Eoin McDonnell, Helen Devane, Adam David Nagy and Maria Elena.

Among the other competitors who stood out were 17-year-old Thomas Shannon and mature student Grace Nagle.

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