Queensland Chef of the Year
A celebration of culinary excellence in the Sunshine State
Have you got what it takes?
Queensland Chef of the Year is a premier culinary competition showcasing some of the most skilled and innovative chefs from across the state. Designed to test creativity, technique, and composure under pressure, this is where Queensland’s top culinary talent steps into the spotlight.
This is more than a competition – it’s a celebration of culinary excellence in the Sunshine State.
Entries close 28 August. Please note the competition is only open to Queensland-based chefs.
What's Involved?
At the centre of the competition is the high-stakes mystery box challenge. Thirty-two finalists are presented with a selection of surprise ingredients and given just one hour to prepare four servings each of an entrée and a main course. With no time to plan, chefs must rely on instinct, skill, and experience to create dishes that impress both visually and in flavour.
Judging is rigorous – every element is scrutinised, from presentation and balance of flavour to technical execution and originality. The pressure is intense, but the rewards are significant.
Not only does the winner earn the title of Queensland Chef of the Year, but they also secure automatic entry into the prestigious Australian Professional Chef of the Year competition, representing Queensland on the national stage.
The Details
WHO CAN ENTER?
Only Queensland based chefs may enter the competition.
WHEN & WHERE
12 & 13 October 2025 Food & Hospitality Queensland Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
HOW IT WORKS
Step 1 – Online Submission: Fill out the below entry form. Entries close 28 August.
Step 2 – Selection: A shortlist of 10 finalists from Queensland will be announced in September.
Step 3 – Competition Time: Finalists compete at the show on the 12th and 13th of October 2025.
KEY DATES
Entries Close: 28th August Finalists Confirmed/ Comp Info Sent: September Competition Date: 12th & 13th October, 10am – 4pm
Have you got what it takes?
Entries are now open
Entries close Thursday, 28th August.
Finalists announced in September.
- Yes
- No