rer-executive-chef-appointment-jan-09-pr
Publicity
Pip Miller PR
Telephone: 0419 681543
Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au
Internet: www.rydges.com/esplanadecairns
MEDIA INFORMATION January 2009
ESTEEMED EXECUTIVE CHEF ADDS
INTERNATIONAL FLAIR TO CAIRNS DINING SCENE
Francis Luzinier has been appointed executive chef Rydges Esplanade Resort and area executive chef overseeing sister properties, Rydges Tradewinds Cairns, Rydges Southbank Townsville and Rydges Gladstone.
Mr Luzinier will take up his position at the helm of Rydges Esplanade Resort’s kitchen brigade in February after relocating from Townsville where he has held the position of Executive Chef at Rydges Southbank Townsville for the past two years.
In announcing his appointment today, Area General Manager of Rydges Hotels Resorts TNQ, Simon White said Mr Luzinier would join the resort as it applies the finishing touch to a significant refurbishment program to its signature restaurant, Coral Hedge Brasserie.
“We are delighted that we will begin 2009 with a new venue that will be showcased to its best effect with a chef of Luzinier’s quality and capability. Francis’ food is incredible and he will be a valued addition for both our guests and the Cairns dining scene ,” said Mr White.
An experienced professional with in excess of 25 years international experience, Luzinier is highly regarded for his passion when it comes to food preparation and service. As a testament to his craft, his list of Restaurant and Caterer’s Awards in 2008 alone include Best Formal Dining and Best Steakhouse for Southbank Grill Townsville, Best Corporate Caterer and Best Wedding Caterer for Southbank Convention Centre. Add to this, his winning apprentices, Reece Purdie (2nd year) and Cassandra Blyth taking home respective accolades, Award of Excellence for School Based Apprentice and Apprentice of the Year 2008.
In his career, Francis has traveled extensively and prior to his position at Rydges Southbank Townsville, spent four years in India managing the kitchens of both the Intercontinental Hotel – The Grand – New Delhi and Renaissance Hotel and Convention Centre, Mumbai.
No stranger to Cairns, or indeed, the Australian hotel industry, Mr Luzinier has worked in some of the country’s best kitchens and restaurants over a period of some 20 years including a two year posting at the Radisson Hotel at the Pier in Cairns (now Shangri-la Marina Hotel) in the early nineties.
Francis says he embraces the challenges of his new role and overseeing the operations of not only Rydges Esplanade, but those of Rydges Tradewinds, Rydges Southbank and Rydges Gladstone as well.
“I am look forward to my return to the tropical north and bringing with me, my passion and flair for fabulous food. A little bit French, a little bit modern Australian – I trust you will enjoy – bon appetite,” he said.
Ends
For further information:
Mr Simon White, Area General Manager Rydges Hotels Resorts TNQ Tel: 07 4044 9000.