A celebration of culinary excellence in the Sunshine State

Queensland Chef of the Year

Entries close Thursday 28th August.

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Have you got what it takes?

Queensland Chef of the Year is your chance to put your skills, creativity, and composure to the ultimate test – live on stage in front of industry leaders and thousands of trade visitors.

What’s up for grabs:

  • $2,500 cash for the winner

  • $500 for each heat winner

  • Entry into the Australian Professional Chef of the Year (flights + accommodation covered)

  • A prestigious title that opens doors

Entries close 28 August – and it’s only open to Queensland-based chefs.

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The Judges

Jamie Gannon

Culinary Director | Feros Group

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Carolyn Helmy

Chef de cuisine | The Star

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Spencer Patrick

Owner | Chef Harrisons

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How does it work?

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.

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Join the Hall of Fame

2024 Winner: Antoin Potier

Sous Chef Restaurant Dan Arnold

2023 Winner: Grant Parry

Chef de Cuisine The Star

2022 Winner: Tom Hitchcock

Sous Chef The Long Apron

Queensland Chef of the Year is proudly brought to you by

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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: 1st September Competition Date: 12th & 13th October, 10am – 4pm

PRIZES

$2,500 cash for the winner $500 for each heat winner Entry into Australian Professional Chef of the Year (flights and accommodation covered)

Have you got what it takes?

Entries are now open

Entries close Thursday, 28th August. 

Finalists announced 1 September.

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Personal Details
Email *
First Name *
Last Name *
Date of Birth *
Address *
State/Territory (this competition is only open to Queensland-based Chefs) *
- Select -Queensland
Mobile *
Postcode *
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Employment Details
Current Employer *
Job Title/Position *
Your Social Media Handle (if applicable)
Years of Experience in the Industry *
Culinary Background and Experience
Industry Qualifications & Certifications *
Have you competed in Chef of the Year previously? *
  • Yes
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Please specify which year you competed in Chef of the Year? *
Specialties or Signature Dishes (briefly describe your culinary style and expertise) *
Please add a 30 second video of you cooking your signature dish *

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Competition Readiness
Why should you be chosen as a finalist for Chef of the Year? *
What are your career goals in the culinary industry? *
What inspires your cooking? *
Who are your culinary influences or mentors? *
What is your approach to sustainability in the kitchen? *
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