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

Entries are now open

Entries close Thursday, 28th August. 

Finalists announced in September.

Email for non-humans
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 *
Please upload your headshot

File name:

File size:

Employment Details
Current Employer *
Job Title/Position *
Years of Experience in the Industry *
Culinary Background and Experience
Industry Qualifications & Certifications *
Have you competed in Chef of the Year previously? *
  • Yes
  • No
Please specify which year you competed in Chef of the Year? *
Please specify which year you competed in Chef of the Year?
Specialties or Signature Dishes (briefly describe your culinary style and expertise) *
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? *
By clicking the button below and submitting your details, you agree to our Privacy Policy.
Submit