12/1/04
Culture and the Arts Minister Sheila McHale will tonight launch the high profile 'Surfing the Menu' television series, to air on the ABC this week.
Ms McHale, business and screen industry representatives will taste-test many of the culinary delights to be showcased on screen this Wednesday, January 14.
"The series focuses on two Australian celebrity chefs who have returned home from their London kitchens to cook up a storm and present the very best of Western Australian food, wine and locations," the Minister said.
"The series stretches north to Broome and south to Margaret River - catching a few waves along the way."
'Surfing the Menu' was a successful applicant to round one of the Screen Industry Partnership Fund, which provides financial support to productions that bring significant benefit to WA.
Ms McHale said since the fund's inception early last year, nearly $5.2million had been committed, helping to generate at least $30.4million worth of production activity with $23.5million spent on WA elements, generating 57 hours of television.
"The Surfing the Menu series has already sold to the ABC, United Kingdom, Discovery Asia, Spain, Scandinavia, Fiji, Slovakia, Africa and Israel to name a few," she said.
"WA locations will showcase around the world - as well as our fresh produce and world-class wines."
Producer Marian Bartsch from Mago Films said the series - which was more than a simple cooking show - was filmed all over Australia.
"A talented team of professionals - all from WA including Geoff Bennett (director) and Alun Bartsch (writer) - all worked tirelessly to bring this entertaining, fun, gourmet adventure series to life," Ms Bartsch said.
"The two Aussie chefs, Ben O'Donoghue and Curtis Stone - who are considered to be the hottest and hunkiest TV chefs from the UK - create the most amazing culinary delights from the freshest produce.
"We at Mago Films are thrilled that it has sold to so many territories around the world and that WA locations may lure tourism and business alike to our shores."
'Surfing the Menu' screens on ABC Television on Wednesday, January 14 at 8pm.
Minister's office: 9213 6900
