Destination NSW Rallies Local Chefs and Winemakers to Support Restaurant Australia Campaign

Some of NSW's finest chefs, restaurateurs, producers and winemakers joined Destination NSW at Sydney's world-renowned Quay restaurant to launch Tourism Australia's new international food and wine campaign, Restaurant Australia.

Based on the idea of Australia being the world's greatest restaurant, the new campaign was revealed with the support of NSW food and wine leaders such as Neil Perry (The Rockpool Group), Mark Best (Marque Restaurant), David Lowe (Lowe Wines), Chris Tyrrell (Tyrrell's Wines) and Pierre Issa (Pepe Saya butter).

NSW chef James Viles of two-hatted restaurant Biota Dining in Bowral wowed guests at the launch event with his unique creations using freshly-foraged ingredients from the Southern Highlands, as recently enjoyed by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Also on show was wine from Tyrrell's Wines in the Hunter Valley, while other NSW food and wine personalities in attendance included Peter Gilmore (Quay), Michael Moore (O Bar and Dining) and Hamish Ingham (Bar H Dining).

Restaurant Australia will capitalise on the growing demand from international travellers for authentic local culinary experiences as part of their travel.

With a dedicated online hub for local businesses to share their food and wine experiences with the world as part of the campaign, Destination NSW CEO Sandra Chipchase is encouraging NSW food and wine businesses to get involved.

“NSW is home to some of the best fresh produce, world-class wines and dining experiences on offer. That so many big names in food and wine hail from Sydney and NSW pays testament to our State's culinary prowess,” Ms Chipchase said.

“Food and wine is key motivator for travel, and Restaurant Australia is a fantastic platform for NSW food and wine businesses to share their stories and encourage people to visit and discover the State's gastronomic experiences for themselves.

“We look forward to telling NSW's food and wine stories, through showcasing our passionate people, stunning places and delicious produce to the world.”

In addition to sharing their story on Restaurant Australia's online hub at www.australia.com/restaurantaustralia, NSW food and wine businesses are encouraged to upload and update their listing on Destination NSW's consumer websites, www.visitnsw.com and www.sydney.com.

Businesses can activate and update listings including details of their food and wine experiences on Get Connected, http://getconnected.dnsw.com.au/, Destination NSW's free website membership program, open to all tourism operators within the State.