At this year's Australian Good Food and Travel Guide Chef Hat awards, Spicers Retreats' gourmet credentials have shone through, with four properties awarded prestigious Chef Hats.

Of the 87 Chef Hats awarded in Queensland, both The Long Apron at Spicers Clovelly Estate and The Tamarind at Spicers Tamarind Retreat impressively achieved a two hat status, whilst The Peak Restaurant at Spicers Peak Lodge, and the newly launched Homage Restaurant at Spicers Hidden Vale were awarded one hat each.

Executive Chefs; Cameron Matthews of The Long Apron, Rory Thorpe of The Tamarind, Ash Martin of Homage and Doug Innes-Will of The Peak Restaurant are passionately committed to providing an exceptional dining experience for their guests, striving to make each property a 'restaurant with rooms.' In line with the awards criteria, they consistently focus on ingredients, taste, presentation, technique, value and consistency.

David Assef, Managing Director of Spicers Retreats, comments 'Spicers  restaurants are passionate about showcasing Australia's best regional produce and bringing fine dining to regional areas across Queensland and New South Wales. All of the awarded restaurants are located in stunning regional pockets of Queensland and work closely with local suppliers to create an authentic, sustainable and exceptional 'farm to fork' experience.”

“As Spicers continues to strive for culinary excellence, our suppliers and sustainability will remain a priority as we endeavour to support Australian farmers and preserve our natural environment. This year we look forward to extending our culinary offerings to our newest property, Sangoma Retreat, and increasing each property's self-sufficiency,” David concludes.

For more information or to arrange interviews please contact Laura Prittie at Horizon Communication Group: Laura@horizoncg.com.au  / (02) 85725628 / 0415763473

About Spicers Retreats:

Founded in 2003 with Spicers Peak Lodge in the mountains of Queensland's Great Dividing Range, Spicers Retreats now boasts six award-winning destinations across South-East Queensland and one in the Hunter Valley in New South Wales.

Established by Graham and Jude Turner, co-founders of Flight Centre Pty Ltd, Spicers was born with a desire to share the unique Queensland experience. Each Spicers Retreat represents an escape into incredible landscapes, personalised service and attention to detail.

Every Spicers property is different, yet they all share a dedication to high quality accommodation and an authentic Australian style of hospitality. Spicers Retreats prides itself on its special brand of 'relaxed luxury' – where each property is an experience reflective of its particular location.

For more information, images or to book your Spicers experience visit: http://spicersretreats.com/