By Denise Sharon Cahill, Western Suburbs Weekly
SCOTCH College head chef Herb Faust is the first winner of Iron Chef Australia and the achievement comes after a difficult year in which he lost his brother.
When the first episode aired on the anniversary of his brother’s death and his team faced technical problems, the Perth father and chef of 16 years could have given up.
Instead, he won the show with a series of original lamb dishes.
Mr Faust had not entered any competitions before Iron Chef but contacted one of the producers, and sent in an audition tape and possible menus.
He was joined by Scotch College catering manager Brett Barrett and Michael Forde, his fellow apprentice at Cucina Restaurant.
The trio had half an hour to work out a battle plan before the show. The team soon faced obstacles like the food processor and juicer breaking down.
He said his family had been supportive and his wife had watched the filming in Melbourne.
The chef said working at Scotch College gave him time with his children and allowed for more creativity.
He added he would continue to work at building his reputation and repertoire.