The combined culinary skills and fundraising efforts of Australia’s top chefs and CEOs came to fruition last night as close to $1.7 million was raised at OzHarvest’s CEO CookOff held at The Cutaway, Barangaroo. The fundraising total will allow OzHarvest to deliver 3.4 million meals to help feed vulnerable people across Australia.

Over one thousand special guests from charitable agencies supported by OzHarvest enjoyed a variety of gourmet meals prepared and served by teams of CEOs under the guidance of celebrity chefs, Neil Perry, Matt Moran, Peter Gilmore and Paul Carmichael to name a few.

The competitive nature of the CEOs saw the fundraising leader board changing right up to the last minute.  In the end, Andrew Chapman, Managing Director of Merchant Group, pipped Clive Burcham, CEO of The Conscience Organisation, to the post raising a staggering $125,714.

“The vibe of the night was unbelievable. Taking the time to sit down with the guests last night and to understand their journey was incredibly humbling and a great reminder that those in a position to give, should,” said Andrew.

OzHarvest Founder and CEO, Ronni Kahn said the flagship fundraiser allows OzHarvest to rescue and redistribute more fresh food, helping to feed people in need at over 900 charities across Australia. Two million people seek food relief each year and many agencies say they could take double to meet demand.

“The face of hunger is diverse and it’s never quite who you think.  For one night, CEOs, business leaders and chefs unite to make a positive impact on the lives of those less fortunate.  It was truly a night to remember, full of love, humility, dignity and respect. That is the magic of the CEO CookOff,” said Ronni.

Guests were treated to a surprise performance from Aussie music legend, Jimmy Barnes, who performed well-known songs including ‘Working Class Man’ and ‘Khe Sanh’. Popular radio hosts, Rove McManus and Sam Frost, MC’d the evening.

Donations can still be made to OzHarvest at www.ceocookoff.com.au.