Proud to be a Chef Crowns its 2026 Winners
Australia and New Zealand’s flagship culinary mentorship program, Proud to be a Chef, has announced its 2026 award winners, recognising the next generation of apprentice chefs.
Following an intensive four-day program of masterclasses, cooking challenges, farm visits, ingredient education sessions and hands-on mentoring, the program has recognised those who demonstrated extraordinary passion, creativity, leadership, and growth.
Thirty-two aspiring chefs competed for several awards, including the program’s top honour – an international culinary scholarship worth over $10,000.
2026 Award Winners
International Culinary Scholarship: Brooke Moore – Barringtons, New South Wales
Best Savoury Dish: Stephanie Vuletich – North Metro TAFE, Western Australia
Best Sweet Dish: Emily Morgan – Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Best Social Media: Patrick Garcia – Academia International, Victoria
Fonterra Oceania Foodservice Director Victoria Landells said it was a privilege to champion the program as it marks its 26th year.
“There’s nothing more inspiring than watching emerging chefs grow and discovering what they’re capable of with the right mentorship.
“This program is something we’re deeply proud of, and we’re honoured to support the next generation of culinary leaders,” Victoria said.
"Every participant brought something unique, but our winners truly stood out for their curiosity, skill, teamwork and their determination to keep pushing themselves further."
Heading up the 2026 judging panel was resident mentor and Executive Chef Mark Normoyle, who said the talent amongst this year’s participants was exceptional.
“The commitment, creativity and potential we saw on display this year was truly world class.
“Every participant brought something unique, but our winners truly stood out for their curiosity, skill, teamwork and their determination to keep pushing themselves further.
“They’ve shown what’s possible when passion meets opportunity,” he said.
Supporting Normoyle in mentoring the 32 talented finalists during the intensive program and in selecting this year’s winners were:
- Sarah Todd – renowned chef and television personality whose career rose to prominence on MasterChef Australia
- Gareth Whitton – celebrated pastry chef and founder of Melbourne’s cult favourite Tarts Anon.
“The success of Proud to be a Chef is driven by the incredible mentors who generously share their time and experience,” Victoria said.
“Connecting our finalists with chefs of this calibre allows them to take what they learn and pursue excellence in kitchens right across Australia and New Zealand.”
The 2026 Proud to be Chef winners now join an alumni community of chefs who have become industry innovators, restaurateurs, educators, and award-winning professionals – continuing a legacy that has helped to shape the region’s culinary landscape for more than two decades.
Learn more at www.proudtobeachef.com.