SEAFOOD FESTIVAL REELS IN TOP CHEF

Gladioli’s Matthew Dempsey will lend his expertise to the event, giving guests a glimpse into the inner workings of a lauded local chef with a focus on sustainability.
Dempsey’s glittering career includes time as executive chef at Pettevel Winery, several Hats in The Age Good Food Guide and work experience at Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck as well as Brett Graham’s two-Michelin starred The Ledbury.
He has also won the Electrolux Appetite for Excellence National Young Chef of the Year Award and represented Australia in the 2010 San Pellegrino World Cooking Cup in Venice.
In 2010, Dempsey rejuvenated Geelong’s cuisine scene, simultaneously launching The Pier, Baveras, Gold Diggers Arms, and City Quarter.
He opened the doors to his own restaurant, Gladioli, in December 2011.
Gladioli is located in Inverleigh and is recognised as one of Victoria’s finest regional dining experiences, emphasising fresh, local produce and reflecting Dempsey’s rural upbringing.
Dempsey also owns Tulip Bar and Restaurant on Pakington Street with close friend Graham Jefferies.
Tulip and Gladioli are both revered locally and around Australia, and both have been awarded Hats and the Best New Regional Restaurant award in The Age Good Food Guide.
“He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in seeking local produce and the importance of sustainable practices,” event director Vicki Penrice said.
Sustainable Hook and Vine Festival will be on Saturday April 9 from 11am-6pm at Torquay Common, featuring food, wine, beer, cider, entertainment, demonstrations, a market and fun for the whole family.
Tickets are on sale now. For more information and to book, head to hookandvine.com.au.