Alumnus Crowned Australia's Professional Chef of the Year

East Sussex College alumnus, Tommy Prosser, has been crowned Australia’s Professional Chef of the Year 2024!

Forget celebrity popularity contests and polls voted by websites and critics. Australia’s premier hospitality organisation has awarded the title of Australian Professional Chef of the Year to Chef and former East Sussex College student Tommy Prosser.

Tommy won this prestigious title at the Foodservice Australia exhibition, the country’s top hospitality trade show. Competing against some of the best chefs, Tommy’s skills and creativity stood out, earning him this incredible honour. His journey started at East Sussex College, where he developed his passion and talent for cooking.

After studying at East Sussex College, Tommy trained at top places like the Michelin-starred Gravetye Manor in Sussex and the famous Waterside Inn with Michel Roux. Tommy also trained in the classics under the legendary Michel Roux at the Roux Brothers’ renowned Waterside Inn, joining a lineage that includes Gordon Ramsay, Marco Pierre White, and Australia’s own Luke Mangan.

He then moved to Australia, where he quickly became a standout in the food scene. His work at popular spots like Hobba in Melbourne and Single O in Sydney has been widely praised.

Tommy built strong foundations under Head lecturers Ron Lee and Ken Ellis. Chef Ken's input into his career at such an impressionable time has been a guiding light throughout his journey. Ken encouraged Tommy and all students to compete, test themselves, and network.

Ken, a highly decorated chef with numerous competition awards and extensive industry recognition, has played a pivotal role in shaping aspiring chefs. Now, in his full-time role, Ken reaches a wider range of students, assessing and encouraging the next generation. Who knows what spark he will ignite in the next cooking champion?

Tommy credits much of his success to his time at East Sussex College, especially the support from mentors like Chef Ken Ellis. "I wouldn't have won the awards, tested myself, cooked at the highest standard of 3 Michelin stars, or become the National Champion Australian Professional Chef Of The Year 2024 if it wasn't for Ken Ellis's mentorship, advice, and constant encouragement and the strong foundation I learnt at Sussex Downs College [now East Sussex College]."

Moving to Australia in 2010, Tommy soon became a key player in the casual dining scene. In its first year, his Melbourne venue, Hobba, received a 3-star ranking in The Age Good Food Guide for best food under $30. At Single O in Sydney, his innovative specials attracted top chefs and food enthusiasts.

Now, Tommy runs his own businesses, Hospitality Works and Crustacean Nation, where he continues to innovate and create amazing food. His recent win as Chef of the Year is a huge milestone, and he’s excited about the future.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this award and have the chance to make my mark on Australia’s dynamic culinary scene,” Tommy said. “The support from the community has been incredible, and I’m leaping at every opportunity to innovate, experiment, educate and share my love for food. Watch this space!”

East Sussex College is incredibly proud of Tommy Prosser’s amazing achievements and can’t wait to see what he does next in the culinary world! Keep an eye out for future pop-up events and a possible visit from Tommy soon - a chance to meet him and taste his award-winning creations.