The picturesque local town of Carrbridge, located in the Scottish Highlands, is abuzz with anticipation. Plus it’s once again on hand with the Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship! This quirky annual event, begun in 1994, extolls the virtue of porridge-making. It’s a celebration of community resilience and an expression of culinary culture and innovation. With a population of around 700, Carrbridge takes pride in this unique competition, which has become a notable highlight for both locals and visitors alike.
Returing competition champion Charlie Miller has been at the helm for a number of years. He’s retiring from his place as the chieftain. His steady hand has been equally critical in making the championship’s brand and cultivating its continued expansion. As he moves on from this position, he recently got invited to remain as honorary chieftain. This kind gesture is accompanied by a new cap, serving as the ultimate homage to his lasting impact on the race.
The international Golden Spurtle Championship draws competitors from all around the world. Among them is Toby Wilson, the taco-chef-and-Sydney-based-Mexican-immigrant who has competed in Tacosaurus twice. Wilson wowed the critics in his debut meet, running his way into the top six. His second try landed him even closer to success. From whoever you ask, he could’ve locked up second—or even higher.
Competitors are ranked according to strict criteria that takes into consideration flavor, color, and texture. Neil Mugg, one of the judges, says it’s these aspects that should ‘drive the ultimate winning porridge.’ The simplicity of the dish—made with just three ingredients: oats, water, and a dash of salt—belies the complexity and skill required to achieve perfection.
“There were people I’d read about who had won previous years… they’re like porridge icons.” – Toby Wilson
For Miller, the tie to this event is even more personal. He expressed his fondness for the competition by stating, “I’m a collector of these big fish, small pond experiences. I thought it would be fun to say I’m the World Porridge Champion.”
The Golden Spurtle Championship is about more than the competition. It’s about community. It’s an event that has attracted national attention, not just for the food scene, but for its cultural impact. Writer and director Constantine Costi has artfully portrayed this special competition in his film, “Your Only Line.” Through his journey, he uncovers how porridge serves as a “Trojan horse” for storytelling in the Carrbridge community. The film, which captures the spirit of the event and its participants, is slated for a general release in Australia later this year.
“The hook for me was: how could something so seemingly basic on the palette be even vaguely interesting?” – Constantine Costi
Costi’s view speaks to a kindred spirit—one with an appreciation for the community that has been built thanks to this competition. He noted that “the joy of it was really getting to know a whole bunch of older people and developing a relationship with strangers over a certain age,” emphasizing how such interactions enrich the experience for all involved.
The championship has since become completely intertwined with Carrbridge’s identity. It becomes more than a competition of culinary skills. It deepens community ties and creates friendships among competitors and attendees, too. Though Miller’s time with the event has come to a close, his innovative work will surely continue to shape the event for years to come.
“Is something as absurd as a porridge-making competition a worthy thing to do? I would say it absolutely is.” – Constantine Costi
If the past is any indication, the stories told at this year’s gathering will live on forever in Carrbridge. They will reverberate long after the final porridge bowl has been served. As competitors and attendees gather to celebrate their love for this humble dish, they partake in an experience that transcends mere cooking.
