A celebration of culinary excellence in the Sunshine State
Queensland Chef of the Year
Entries are now closed
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:
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$2,500 cash for the winner
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$500 for each heat winner
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Entry into the Australian Professional Chef of the Year (flights + accommodation covered)
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A prestigious title that opens doors
Entries are now closed.
2025 Queensland Chef of the Year Finalists
The Judges
Jamie Gannon
Culinary Director | Feros Group
Read MoreCarolyne Helmy
Chef de cuisine | The Star
Read MoreSpencer Patrick
Owner | Chef Harrisons
Read MoreClaire Van Vuuren
Head Chef & Owner | Bloodwood
Read MoreTobie Puttock
Guest Judge: Sunday Chef | Zero Waste Cooking
Read MoreChris Jordan
Guest Judge: Monday First Nations Chef | Three Little Birds
Read MoreHow 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.
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
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 closed
Entries are now closed. Missed out but really think you’ve got what it takes? Email Alice.
Finalists announced September.
