CIRA-ALMA ‘Young Talent’ Award

The Council of Italian Restaurants in Australia aims to safeguard Italian Culinary culture, increase public knowledge of both traditional and evolving values in Italian food and encourage informed experimentation in the industry.  With its Young Talent award it aims to foster young chefs and increase the knowledge of Italian food in Australia.

The 2010 winner will receive an ‘Alma Experience Scholarship’ which includes a two week course at the prestigious ALMA International School of Italian Cuisine in Parma Italy, accommodation and return airfares.  The prize is offered by Acqua Panna-S.Pellegrino.

The award is open to young chefs aged between 18 and 30, currently residing in Australia (i.e. Australian citizens or permanent residents) and working in an Italian restaurant.  The judging panel will include some of Australia’s leading chefs and a food critic.

To enter, eligible applicants must complete the on line or hard copy application form and meet the criteria below. 

Criteria:

- open to NSW and ACT residents only

- applicants must provide up to three places of employment including referees and contacts

- applicants must write 300 to 400 words on their philosophy of Italian food

- entries must be submitted to CIRA by 16th August 2010.

- finalists will be required to cook a classic Italian recipe supplied by the judging panel and an Italian recipe of their choice

The winner will be announced at the CIRA Gala Dinner on Monday 13th September 2010.