Alastair McLeod cooks with STEPS Pathways College

Renowned celebrity chef Alastair McLeod has made a special visit to STEPS Pathways College.

The College, which specialises in teaching independence skills to young adults with disabilities and autism, is situated on the Sunshine Coast and has been offering life changing opportunities since 2017.

Alastair’s appearance comes after the announcement that he was lending his culinary skills to the STEPS Grand Winter Ball, an event which raises money so that the STEPS Pathways College may continue to help young adults with disabilities and autism gain their independence and follow their passions.

“It’s such a wonderful opportunity to support a charity that does really great things for the community,” Alastair said.

Occurring this year on the 24th of July, the event has already caused a buzz with musical acts such as Paulini also joining the lineup.

During Alastair’s visit, the celebrity chef took the time to look at two of STEPS Pathways College’s culinary spaces: the specialised kitchen where the students learn to cook and the newly built café where students can gain work experience in a supported space.

In the kitchen, Alastair saw the group of students cook local barramundi, with the students able to show off their skills and even getting some great positive feedback from the chef.

“It really highlighted that food and cooking is not only an important skill but it’s also an excellent communicator,” Alastair added.

Later joining the students in the specialised café, Alastair had the chance to try some of the student’s coffees and sandwiches, which the students specially made to thank Alastair for his support of the College.

“The success of any café is as much about the quality of food and coffee as it is about hospitality, and the students gave both in spades,” Alastair said.

Alastair’s culinary skills are sure to be a huge drawcard for the event, with Alastair’s career extending across multiple countries and Michelin listed restaurants. To celebrate the students, the College, and the beauty of the Sunshine Coast, Alastair is using locally acquired ingredients to create some marvelous creations.

Tickets to the event have recently gone on sale to much success, with only a few tickets left to partake in the wonderful night for a great cause. To join Alastair McLeod and raise money for a much needed organisation, visit thestepsgrandwinterball.com to secure your tickets.