Team Profile - Helen Pratt (Team Chef)

Helen Pratt (*pictured above) is a third generation Kingaroy local. She began cooking at home with her mother and was entering scones and peanut biscuits into the annual Kingaroy Agricultural Show at the tender age of six. She still gloats proudly about her undefeated chocolate fudge.

Helen’s love of cooking continued throughout here childhood, until she left school to pursue a career in architecture, enrolling in a Bachelor Degree in Architecture at the University of Queensland.

After two years of full-time studies, she discovered where her true calling lay – cooking! In 1999 she left uni and commenced a chef’s apprenticeship at the Pioneer Room in Kingaroy under Head Chef Jason Ford.

During this time, Helen developed a keen interest in the South Burnett’s local farmers, and bourgeoning food and wine industry. She recognised the potential of her region as a tourism destination and the economic and social benefits it would generate for her community.

For the remaining years of her apprenticeship she trained in a succession of well-known French inspired restaurants such as Tables of Toowong, the iconic Baguette Restaurant and Rhubarb Rhubarb. Helen also developed a high level of skill in pastry work.

On qualifying, Helen moved to the Haute Savoie in the French Alps, and worked as a resident chef for an up market ski chalet.

Helen recently returned to her hometown, and is currently Head Chef of the newly refurbished ‘Kinga’ Hotel. And, in March this year, Helen took out the award of 'Best Overall Dish' at the 2007 PCA South Burnett Culinary Competition. With her continued support of all things regional, and specialist skills in French cuisine, Helen will provide an invaluable contribution to Team South Burnett.

*Photograph courtesy of PCA and Clive Lowe