SMYL Community College student shows culinary prowess in Taste of the Future cooking competition

A talented Rockingham student has shown he has the makings of a future master chef, taking out second place in a Statewide cooking competition. SMYL Community College Year 12 student Ashton Allen was one of six finalists to face off in the tenth annual Taste of The Future schools cooking competition hosted by Hospitality Group Training WA on June 22. Year 11 and 12 students from across Perth took part in a cook-off, judged by culinary heavyweights WA Food Ambassador Don Hancey, QT Perth executive chef Stephen Clarke and Perth Arena executive chef Paul Beard. Allen’s winning dish, Pollo — Three Amigos, was inspired by the flavours of Mexico and showcased chicken prepared three ways including a stuffed medallion, seasoned tenderloin and a stuffed deboned chicken leg. The three judges praised Allen’s attention to detail and versatility across the three styles, with the student just missing out on the top prize awarded to Mt Lawley Senior High School’s Henry Trieu. SMYL teacher Maria Ysart said Allen was a dedicated young chef who displayed “remarkable talent and creativity” during the contest and made his school proud. “(Ashton’s) culinary expertise and innovative presentation impressed the judges,” she said. Ms Ysart said the young chef’s “unwavering commitment and hard work” was to be credited for his “outstanding performance”. “Ashton’s success in this prestigious competition will undoubtedly open doors to exciting future opportunities and pave the way for a promising career in the culinary arts.” Inspired by the experience and mentorship from the three judges, Allen has applied for an apprenticeship with Hospitality Group Training.