Australia has crowned its first national porridge champion at the inaugural Pearly Spurtle competition, held in Pearl Beach, NSW. The event, named after its seaside location and the traditional stirring implement, saw 15 competitors battle it out in heats and a final.
The competition was modelled after Scotland's 32-year-old Golden Spurtle world championship. Competitors had 30 minutes to prepare a litre of traditional porridge, made only from untreated oats, water, and salt, as well as a creative oat-based dish.
The top five contestants – Rachel Visontay, Robert Reid, Sam Vincent, Phil Scarf, and Muriel Petersen – advanced to the final. The ultimate champion will earn a trip to Scotland to represent Australia at the Golden Spurtle in October.