GEELONG Mayor Darryn Lyons is tucking in a napkin and loosening his belt in preparation for the region’s premier hospitality awards.
He urged venues and their patrons to tuck into the 11th annual Golden Plate Awards.
The awards were “brilliant” recognition for the city’s best restaurants, cafes and chefs, he said.
“Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are leading the way in Australian hospitality with outstanding restaurants, world-renowned wineries and an amazing coffee culture.
“The Golden Plate awards are a great way to publicly recognise these venues and give back to the head chefs, baristas and venue owners and operators.”
Cr Lyons said celebrating local hospitality venues lifted the region’s profile, boosting tourism and enhancing the lifestyle of residents.
The Geelong awards have gone regional in recent years, with the Ballarat and Bendigo/central Victoria regions hosting their own programs.
Regional winners will be announced in October and state champions in November.
The Geelong Independent will again sponsor the Golden Plates’ People’s Choice Award, this year offering a Bali holiday for two from Garuda Airlines for the best dining review.
Cr Lyons was rapt the Independent’s award gave the wider community an opportunity to participate in the Golden Plates.
“I encourage the community to vote and help support local hospitality venues.
“This is another great award running alongside the Golden Plate Awards, giving back to restaurants and cafes.”
Golden Plate category nominations are open now at goldenplateawards.com.au.
Reviews for the People’s Choice Award open in July.
