Chefs combine to produce menu with extra appeal

Imagine heading to a five-star hotel and being treated to a delectable four-course dinner, prepared by not one, but four of the city’s gastronomic masterminds.

That’s what awaits those attending the inaugural 5-Star Chefs for Charity event, which will raise funds for the annual Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal.

The culinary expertise of head chefs from Hilton Cairns, Pullman Cairns International, Shangri-La and the Pullman Reef Casino will be plated and presented as part of the four-course dinner event on Saturday 7 November at the Hilton Cairns.

Each chef will prepare one course for the menu, which will feature two entrees (one seafood), a main and a dessert, with drinks to complement each element.

Set to become the appeal’s annual signature event, Cairns Mayor Bob Manning encouraged those attending to think red, white or black when choosing an outfit, in keeping with the festive theme.

“This is a real collaboration between Council and four of our five-star hotels. It shows just what we can achieved when we think outside box,” Cr Manning said.

“This year we will be enjoying the hospitality of the Hilton Cairns, but each hotel will have the opportunity to play the part of host over next four years.

“It is not often that you get the chance to be treated to a meal prepared by four of our city’s top chefs; I’m looking forward to the menu, which will feature local regional produce.”

Hilton Cairns General Manager, Scott Wilson, welcomed the chance to be a part of this inaugural event, which would help people in need.

"In the spirit of Hilton’s vision ‘to fill the Earth with the light and warmth of hospitality’, we are very pleased to be working with Cairns Regional Council and the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal,” he said.

“As the inaugural host hotel for the 5-Star Chefs for Charity event, we are thrilled to be helping support the local Cairns community during these times of hardship, as well as showcasing local produce and talent.”

The event will kick off with aperitifs in Hilton’s Gin Social from 6.15pm, followed by dinner at 7pm in the Hilton’s ballroom.

All services and products have been generously supplied by each hotel as an in-kind donation. The dinner will be limited to 110 guests, with all proceeds from the ticket sales to be donated to the appeal for this year’s food hampers.

Tickets are $150 per person and bookings can be made online at www.ticketlink.com.au.

Who’s preparing what