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Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, Australia’s luxury conservation-based resort, has appointed Damian Brabender to the role of head chef.
Damian had been working as Wolgan’s executive sous chef for six months before his promotion to head chef. His professionalism and enthusiasm for sourcing local, seasonal and organic produce in line with the resort’s food philosophy make him a welcome asset to the resort’s kitchen.
As head chef, Damian aspires to establish the resort as a foodie destination in its own right, and promises to be a proactive chef.
“I really want to put Wolgan on the culinary map. I want guests to seek out the resort because of our fantastic dining experience – an experience that guests won’t have anywhere else because our dishes are inspired by local produce from the surrounding areas of Mudgee, Orange and the Hunter Valley, as well as our very own kitchen garden,” said Damian Brabender.
“I pride myself on being a very hands-on chef and leading by example. I believe in training young chefs the right way and look forward to building an ambitious brigade to bring Wolgan to even higher heights of excellence than we already achieve. I am also looking forward to working closely with the brilliant local growers, farmers and vintners who provide us with exceptionally high quality produce,” concluded Damian.
Joost Heymeijer, General Manager, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, commented: “We are fortunate to have a very talented team at Wolgan, and I’m pleased to be promoting from within the resort. Damian has excelled as an executive sous chef, bringing fresh new ideas to the table and a genuine passion for locally sourced ingredients.”
Since his recent appointment, Damian has worked alongside internationally renowned chef Brett Graham, the first Australian to hold two Michelin stars and Neil Perry, arguably Australia’s most influential chef, for the resort’s recent culinary event with Qantas epiQure. Damian is now working hard on a fresh and delicious festive menu that captures the spirit of Wolgan Valley and is set to impress guests over the Christmas and New Year’s Eve period.
Damian has a diverse and successful culinary career spanning 13 years. Before joining Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, Damian was the executive sous chef at Lizard Island resort for two years. Previously, he was head chef at London’s Royal Opera House where he worked alongside legendary UK chef Pierre Koffman. While in London, Damian also worked at Racine which is regarded as one of London’s finest French restaurants and boasts two AA Rosettes.
For further information about Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley visit
