A new culinary competition will make its debut at Food & Hospitality Queensland 2025, with top pizza chefs from Queensland and New South Wales going head-to-head in the inaugural State of Origin Pizza Competition.
Entries are now open for New South Wales and Queensland based pizza chefs who want to compete, with applications closing on 28th August.
Taking place at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) on 12–13 October, the competition will showcase the culinary creativity and skill of leading pizzaioli’s in a live, high-stakes, QLD vs NSW pizza showdown.
In a team format, the best pizzaioli and pizza chefs from New South Wales and Queensland will go head-to-head to craft the signature pizzas that made their names in the industry as they compete for bragging rights and state pride.
“This event is set to fire up the show floor – we’re expecting big crowds, big coverage and even bigger flavour,” said Food & Hospitality Queensland Event Director Mike Hill.
“No bench, no interchanges – just leading pizzaioli from NSW and QLD will don their respective Maroon and Blue aprons for the ultimate pizza showdown.”
“With That’s Amore bringing the cheese, Marana providing a world-class pizza oven, and an industry leading judging panel led by 400 Gradi’s Johnny Di Francesco the stage is set for an epic cook-off.”
The prizes are hot too: $2,000 cash for Best Overall Pizza Chef, a share of the group prize money for each member of the winning team, and automatic entry into Australia’s Best Pizza Awards at Food & Hospitality Week.
Think you’ve got what it takes? If you’re a standout pizza chef or restaurant representing either Queensland or New South Wales, this is your chance to throw your hat in the ring and represent your state in this first-of-its-kind pizza battle.
Head to the Food & Hospitality Queensland website to apply to compete.
Prizes and Recognition:
- The title of Inaugural State of Origin Pizza Competition Champions
- Recognition on the Food & Hospitality Queensland website, social media channels, and through coverage with official media partners.
- A share of the group prize money for each member of the winning team
- $2,000 cash prize for the overall individual champion
About Food & Hospitality Queensland
Food & Hospitality Queensland is the premier event for what’s new and what’s changing in the business of foodservice, hospitality, and food-to-go.
Dates: 12-13 October 2025
Location: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Tickets: $30 pre-registration tickets go on sale on Monday 21st July. All tickets cost $50 at the door. Website: https://foodandhospitality.com.au/
Sponsorship, Exhibition or Partnership Enquiries: Contact Mike Hill – mhill@nationalmedia.com.au – 0421 566 264
Media Enquiries:
Contact Lucy Eldred – leldred@nationalmedia.com.au – 0407 829 726
