Gallagher remembered
"He was instrumental in the first apprenticeship scheme for young chefs."
Renowned chef and former Isandovale resident, Dr Billy Gallagher, died in his sleep on May 19.
“He was one of South Africa’s iconic figures in the food and beverage industry and his experience spanned over four decades at the highest level,” said Mr Stephen Billingham, president of The South African Chefs Association.
Dr Gallagher was well known for his involvement in education. He spent five years as chairman of the Board of the School of Tourism and Hospitality at the University of Johannesburg.
He served as president of the South African Chefs Association for 20 years. He had also been elected president of the World Association of Chefs Societies from 1996 to 2000.
“A tireless proponent of advancing the knowledge of young people, he was instrumental in the first apprenticeship scheme for young chefs and was a founding member of the original Hospitality Industry Training Board,” said Mr Billingham.
Dr Gallagher was actively involved with a number of projects over the last few years.
He was joint convener of the World Chefs Tour Against Hunger charity programme, which took place in South Africa in 2011, with the clear objective to raise R10 million to help alleviate and reduce the plight of hunger of the needy.
A book of condolences for the Gallagher family will be available for contributions at the South African Chefs Association or email pa@saca.co.za or visit the offices in Auckland Park to make sure that your message is included.
