Ten Years of Showcasing Hunter Culinary Skills

The beautiful Hunter Region attracts visitors from Australia and around the world to enjoy locally produced fine wines and foodie delights at some of the country’s best restaurants, producers and providores.

Not-for-profit organisation Hunter Culinary Association (HCA) has been supporting and championing the local hospitality industry for 10 years, and today they are more passionate than ever about the region and the talented people that work here.

HCA’s Chairman and Human Resources, businessman Ben Neil said, “When I came on board in 2007, HCA was known as ‘Hunter Chefs and Co.’. The focus was similar to what we do now, but it was run by high-profile, busy Hunter chefs with the aim of creating opportunities and pathways for young chefs.

“They decided that to keep their good work ticking over year-round, they needed someone with hospitality and business experience and so I took up the role of Chairman.”

Generous industry sponsors and annual membership fees from businesses and interested individuals fund the work that the HCA does to promote the region and nurture its young talent.

Read more in Edition 80 of Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine.

Story by Laura Jackel.  Left to right: Chef Colin Fassnidge, HCA Chairman Ben Neil, Chef Matthew Kemp. Photography: Paper Bag Projects.