The inaugural Matt Moran Ambassador Prize has been awarded by its namesake to a TAFE NSW commercial cookery graduate.

Brent Hughes was presented with the $1500 gong by celebrity chef Matt Moran during a gala dinner at the Ryde TAFE Campus in Sydney's north.

"It's incredibly encouraging to have my culinary achievements recognized by TAFE and the broader hospitality community," Brett told the Northern District Times. "It makes me want to continue to strive to be the best I can be and continue to grow and learn in my industry."As well as the financial reward, another benefit for Brett of winning the Matt Moran Ambassador Prize is the opportunity for him to gain some valuable first-hand experience working in Matt's fine dining restaurant Aria at Circular Quay, an enviable gig for any budding chef.