Errol Drane named Big Bethanie Bake-off Champion 2019

Mr Drane, a resident at Bethanie Illawong aged care home in Hamilton Hill, has scooped the top prize at the annual intergenerational Big Bethanie Bake Off with his mum's chicken curry recipe.

He beat off stiff competition to secure the coveted title at the Bake Off final in front of a live audience at Burswood Park on November 13.

Mr Drane said he learned the recipe after watching his mum cook.

"Later in life when I was working in a second-hand disposals company, somebody smelt how nice my lunch was and asked me to come and work for him in his restaurant, A Touch of India, in Scarborough," he said.

The Big Bethanie Bake-Off is held every year by the not-for-profit aged care and retirement living provider.

The competition saw four finalists from the senior and junior categories cook their favourite family recipe, accompanied by a story reflecting their family's life, culture and history.

Other winners included Dominic Cusato from Bethanie West Perth Living Well Center who won the Best Senior Award for his meatballs and spaghetti.

Jessie McPhillips from Highgate Primary School was given the Best Junior Award for her Nonna Rosa's lasagne.

West Australian foodie and media personality, Verity James, hosted the event. She was joined by a panel of judges including West Coast Institute executive director of hospitality and trades Patrick O'Brien, food and lifestyle blogger Belinda Cipriano and Bethanie chief executive Chris How.

"We had a wonderful day at our sixth annual Bake Off," said Mr How.

"As usual I delighted in being able to try every dish, but the real joy came from hearing the stories behind where the dishes came from, many being handed down from one, two or sometimes three generations."

The Grand Finale was held live from Burswood Park at the Seniors Recreational Council of WA's Have a Go Day.

All finalist recipes will be published in a special recipe booklet.

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