A LastIng Legacy
The Scott Richardson Memorial Trust is dedicated to preserving the memory of Scott Richardson, a passionate and influential figure in the Southland hospitality scene. Through the trust, we strive to continue Scott's legacy of empowering the next generation of culinary professionals.
Scott Richardson was a talented chef and dedicated educator from Māwhera, where his love for hospitality took root in his early years. Beginning with an apprenticeship at Kings Hotel Greymouth, he quickly made a name for himself as one of Aotearoa's top apprentices. Scott then moved to Waihōpai, where he played a pivotal role in developing the hospitality department at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) over a 12-year tenure. During this time, he also established his own restaurant and consulted for the Invercargill Licensing Trust.
Scott's passion for education eventually led him to create a hospitality department at Southland Boys' High School. There, he taught not only the art of cooking but also inspired countless young men to pursue careers in hospitality. Many of Scott's students have gone on to work in top restaurants both nationally and internationally. Tragically, Scott passed away in 2017 after a sudden battle with leukemia.
A Life of Passion and Mentorship.
A Celebration of Culinary Excellence.
A Dinner for Scott is a special event honouring Scott Richardson's legacy by bringing together renowned chefs for a fundraiser dinner. The event celebrates culinary excellence and supports the trust's mission and scholarship program through its proceeds.
Nurturing Talent and Inspiring Growth.
The Scott Richardson Memorial Trust's primary goal is to educate, encourage, and develop aspiring hospitality professionals. Drawing on Scott's passion for optimising time, overcoming challenges, and pursuing growth, the trust is driven to create opportunities for young talent in the industry.
One of the trust's flagship initiatives is The Scott Richardson Scholarship, an annual award given to a young Southland resident pursuing a career in the hospitality industry.