Two Hunter Valley apprentices are one step closer to London after reaching the final cook-off of the Brett Graham Scholarship.

Six preliminary finalists vied for the honour this week to work under the leading Australian chef in his highly-acclaimed UK-based restaurant, The Ledbury.

And, as a result, The George Tavern’s Ian Tintero (Maitland) and EXP Restaurant’s Jayden Dann (Pokolbin) will lock horns with the Central Coast’s Jahri Etteridge (Yellowtail) on Tuesday 15 March for the $10,000 career kick-start.

The prize purse will assist in covering airfares and accommodation in London.

The Hunter Culinary Association (HCA), in conjunction with TAFE NSW, hosts the prestigious annual event, now in its 18th year.

It aims to recognise and nurture one of the region’s most talented young chefs.

Previous winners of the Brett Graham Scholarship include Troy Rhoades Brown (Muse), Garreth Robbs (Bistro Molines), Chris Thornton (Restaurant Mason), George Mirosevich (The Signal Box) and Josh Gregory (Muse Kitchen).

“I believe the competition [on Tuesday night] was particularly close,” HCA chair Gus Maher said.

“The judges – Tracey Amos (TAFE), Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle publisher Cornelia Schultz and leading local chef Shayne Mansfield (The Flotilla) – all recognised the skill level of this year’s competing apprentices.

“They said each participant displayed a broad range of talent and creativity.

“And, while all six finalists were very worthy, their choice of the final three was unanimous.”

Joining the trio on the judging panel for next week’s cook-off will be Andy Wright, long time, well-known Hunter Valley chef, co-founder of the Hunter Culinary Association and now proprietor of Pokolbin Catering Co with his wife, Janet.

“The HCA is a not-for-profit organisation, led by industry professionals, offering a suite of scholarships and awards that support aspiring young chefs, apprentices and front-of-house specialists,” Mr Maher said.

“As a region, the Hunter offers a culinary destination featuring diverse and abundant dining experiences ranging from quality cafes to hatted restaurants, which proudly showcase passionate and talented industry professionals, regionally-sourced produce and award-winning wines from the Hunter Valley’s highly regarded wineries.”

Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.