How to Join
The new Alumni initiative will officially launch in Spring 2026. The NCOTY team will soon be contacting finalists from the last five years, inviting them to join.
Former winners and top ten competitors are also welcome to contact us to be part of this exciting NCOTY Hall of Fame.
The National Chef of the Year Alumni is sponsored by headline partners, Essential Cuisine and Angus Pure supported by Aussie Beef & Lamb.
“This competition continues to be a launchpad for culinary talent. The energy, passion and precision we saw at the 2025 final was inspiring for everyone involved”
"It felt a good time in my career to test myself at the highest level and enter National Chef of the Year. I'm delighted I managed to win on my first attempt, especially with such amazing feedback, and now I've joined an illustrious list of winners."
"It’s been an honour to Chair this competition for the last two years. The high number and standard of entries, dedication and level of cooking I’ve witnessed has been a joy to see and I look forward to following these finalists’ culinary careers."