BYRON BAY and the hinterland have taken out the trophy for Outstanding Region in the recent delicious magazine awards.
On hand to collect the trophy was Byron Shire Council’s economic and tourism co-ordinator Jane Laverty.
Ms Laverty said the award caught her completely by surprise.
“We didn’t nominate. The award came as a result of some of Australia’s most renowned chefs and food industry leaders recognising our industry maturity and passion for food.
“The combination of our incredible climate and fertile soils has seen our agricultural, valued added producers and the creativity in our restaurants grab the national stage.
“Where we live is simply magical and it was great to share in the recognition with leading local producers and upcoming chefs,” she said.
Byron also saw a gold medal win for Salumi Australia Bottarga and Josh Lewis from Fleet in Brunswick Heads being declared winner of the Unearth Next Gen Chef.
Byron Bay Farmers Market was also a finalist. New local farmer to Byron Palisa Anderson took out the award for outstanding food store, Jarern Chai Asian Grocer and Boon Café Haymarket, where the farm produce is directly supplied to.
Now in its eleventh year, the delicious Produce Awards continue to champion the best Australian produce and the people behind it, thanks to a passionate network of food industry experts who nominate outstanding produce and producers from all over Australia.
Ms Laverty said the prestigious national award will allow the area to continue to build the Byron food advantage and help leverage stronger ties to the upcoming 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.
“Byron has outstanding produce and is a leading Australian foodie region from the farm gate to the restaurant plate.
“Our shire is truly centre stage and the award is a tribute to industry network group Northern Rivers Food on their hard work.
“We have a lot to be proud of,” Ms Laverty acknowledged.