MEDIA RELEASE
July 2009

The killer instincts of the Regal Innovative Chef of the Year

Owen Sinclair, executive chef and owner of Killer Prawn in Whangarei, is a champion for his hometown and the hospitality industry. 

Owen beat nine of his peers to win the Regal Innovative Northland Chef of the Year at the 2008 Mataariki Industry Awards - Northland's third annual event.

"I feel honoured to be rewarded for all my efforts over the past 15 years," says Owen.

"It's also great for the whole team to be recognised - I rely heavily on my staff to support me and drive the restaurant."

The 2008 Mataariki Industry Awards is an initiative of Northland Chefs: the newest and youngest branch of the New Zealand Chefs Association. These awards are about recognizing the standard and achievements of those in the Northland region who strive for excellence.

The Regal Salmon Innovative Northland Chef of the Year is "a chef who is recognised for creating great food consistently and runs a tight kitchen. This chef is recognised for being an inspiration to others and a leader in their field," says event organiser Sam Timoko.

Owen certainly exceeds the criteria.  Killer Prawn has been at the culinary cutting edge for more than 15 years, bringing pleasure to locals and tourists alike.  And with the addition of McMorrissey's Irish pub and Killer Pizza, he's a man who is actively contributing to the success of Northland's hospitality industry. With an accredited training kitchen, he has educated many young chefs; several of which have chose to pursue their careers further with Owen after graduation.

Paul Jobin, TV chef, Kerikeri resident and host of the evening's award ceremony, said Owen's award is well deserved.

"Owen was the clear winner and an obvious innovator in the industry," says Paul.

New Zealand King Salmon marketing manager Stephen Gibson says the company values its involvement in the Mataariki Awards.

"We very much appreciate being able to help those Northland hospitality ambassadors gain recognition for their achievements," says Stephen.

ends

Issued for Regal Salmon by Pead PR

For Media:  Pead PR is happy to facilitate all media interest.

Contacts:

Stephen Gibson, NZ King Salmon, Tel: 0-9-622-4912; 029 230 0021; Email: stephen.gibson@kingsalmon.co.nz

Stacey Wilkinson, Pead PR, Tel: 0-9-918-5587; 021 024 87913; Email: stacey@peadpr.co.nz