General News
16 August, 2026
Taste Port Douglas brings top talents to Shire
ONCE again Taste Port Douglas has cemented its reputation as Australia’s leading tropical food and drink celebration with an extended weekend of events last week, 6-9 August.
Over the four days, both locals and visitors met celebrated chefs, experienced extraordinary meals, plus masterclasses and experiences that captured the magic of Far North Queensland.
The Festival Village, set on the grounds of the Sheraton Grand Mirage resort, featured live cooking demonstrations by festival talent, pop-up restaurant stalls and bars, live music, local produce and roving entertainers.
“We have been running Taste Port Douglas for a decade now and we’re overjoyed to see what our home-grown festival has become,” said event organiser and chef Spencer Patrick.
“Every year it gets bigger and better with a spectacular line-up of events and masterclasses, hosted by Australia’s own impeccable culinary talent, both chefs and producers, as well as international chefs of Michelin-starred pedigree,” he said.
Among the global talent was Ashleigh Otto from Cairns, who shared her knowledge as a pastry professional.
Ms Otto’s journey in pastry began at the age of 16, when she quickly made her mark in the culinary world. Her passion for creativity and culinary excellence has led her to represent Australia at the Food Hotel Asia competition in Singapore and to win multiple gold medals in the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat competition.
“My work is characterised by storytelling through food and creating memorable experiences. I aim to inspire with a creative and passionate approach to pastry,” Ms Otto said.
