A Dalby school tuckshop has taken out first place in the Queensland Association of School Tuckshops’ 2022 Recipe of the Year competition.
The panel of judges simply couldn’t look past Dalby South State School Tuckshop Convener, Raelene Akers’ Sweet and Sour Chicken, awarding it the coveted title.
Relatively new to the role, Raelene has hit the ground running in the tuckshop, making positive changes by ramping up the menu with homemade classics the kids are going crazy for.
Her competition entry was a hit with the judges, who all commented on the versatility of the ingredients and adaptability for special dietary requirements.
They said the recipe is sure to transport you back in time to the days of your youth when sweet and sour was a family staple.
The competition, which is supported by Health and Wellbeing Queensland, is delivered by the Queensland Association of School Tuckshops (QAST) and attracts entrants from school tuckshops across Queensland.
“The Recipe of the Year competition celebrates the wonderful recipes tuckshops have trialled and succeeded with throughout the year,” QAST Executive Services Manager, Chris Ogden said.
“This competition shows how resourceful and innovative tuckshop convenors are, often with less-than-ideal kitchens to create in.
“This year we saw entries come in from right across Queensland, so we were delighted that the title went to a regional state school.”
Health and Wellbeing Queensland Chief Executive, Dr Robyn Littlewood, said she was once again impressed with the quality of entries and was delighted to see an old favourite re-emerge.
“This is such a highlight each year and it was heartening this year to see a meal we enjoyed as kids being reintroduced to the next generation,” Dr Littlewood said.
Raelene was recognised for her achievement at the Dalby South State School assembly on Wednesday, 17 August.
Recipe of the Year is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland.
