Mindy Woods is a proud Bundjalung woman, celebrated for her culinary expertise and unwavering commitment to promoting Indigenous Australian ingredients. Mindys passion for food was ignited in childhood, inspired by her Nan and long walks along the beach collecting pipis, foraging native plants and spices, and cooking them with her mob on Country.

Mindy rose to national prominence as a finalist in Season 4 of MasterChef Australia in 2012, and returned for Season 14, using the platform to spotlight native bush foods. Following her success on the show, Mindy took on leadership roles as Head of Culinary Development and later CEO of the Lotus Dining Group.

In 2020, Mindy founded KARKALLA Byron Bay-named after a native succulent-as a space to connect diners with Aboriginal culture through food. Mindy re-launched Karkalla On Country, offering immersive outdoor dining experiences that honour Country and celebrate native ingredients in their natural environment.

Mindy is also the author of Karkalla At Home, a cookbook encouraging Australians to use native ingredients in everyday meals.

In 2021, Mindy proudly represented Australia at the World Expo in Dubai, returning to the global stage recently at the World Expo in Osaka, Japan, 2025 to continue championing Indigenous Australian cuisine.