REGIONAL Victoria’s most acclaimed culinary awards will celebrate its 10th anniversary in Geelong this year.
General manager Pamela Jewson said the Golden Plate Awards were considered one of the most prestigious hospitality accolades in the state.
The 2013 Golden Plates launched this week with an industry party ushering in six months of “rigorous judging and analysis” by a team of eight pofessional judges.
The awards have since spread from their debut in Geelong the Ballarat and Bendigo regions, with more than 150 cafes, restaurants and hotels entering.
The awards select the best local venues and suppliers based on 36 criteria in five major categories before conferring a state regional title on the winner of all three regions.
Ms Jewson said renowned foodie and restaurateur Rita Erlich would lead the judging panel.
“The awards are the catalyst in bringing these respected judges to the regions, all hand selected by Rita Erlich,” she said.
“Scores will be fully audited by an independent accounting firm. We don’t know of any other hospitality awards that go to this level and believe we’re setting a world benchmark.”
Ms Erlich said the judges were “thrilled” with the quality of participants in last year’s awards.
“We have seen Geelong Otway developing into a thriving food hub. With lots more great restaurants and cafes expanding and opening new operations these are exciting times for the city and surrounding areas.
“If our job is difficult, then everyone benefits, especially the consumer.”
A new hotel category and greater emphasis on the state title of best chef have been added this year.
The winners of the 2013 Geelong Otway and State Champions will be announced at a Gala Celebration in November.
The Independent is a sponsor of the Golden Plate Awards.
Managing editor Tony Galpin said the paper was rapt to be involved again this year.
“As the region’s highest-cicrulating community newspaper, we are thrilled to be able to support such an important local industry,” he said.
