Cameron Matthews

Cameron is passionate about creating a blueprint for the Food Service Industry to improve sustainability across key areas including sourcing, society, environment and chefs’ mental health. He is devoted to developing an increased commitment to responsibly farmed meat and dairy as well as sustainable fish and strategies to minimise and repurpose food waste. Cameron is an acknowledged leading industry figure and a devotee of supporting local and dynamic producers. He has gained a host of awards and regularly presents at a range of internationally recognised food festivals and major charity events. He is a strong supporter and advocate of the Hinterland region’s iconic food festivals and has made numerous TV guest appearances.

In November 2020 Cameron followed his dream and opened his own restaurant – Winston – a chef in residency pop-up held within the iconic Wasabi restaurant space in Noosa. And in late 2021 he opened newly established Hazelwood Estate’s The Paddock Restaurant.

Cameron is a strong supporter of OZHarvest. He was the only Australian chef to participate in the London launch of UKHarvest which is based on Ronni Kahn’s local concept and managed by the Jamie Oliver Foundation – Food Revolution.

He has held the title of Executive Chef for a range of iconic restaurants including Brisbane’s Siggi’s Restaurant and Lurleen’s, Sirromet Winery, Mount Cotton. As Group Executive Chef he was an integral part of the Spicers Retreats Senior leadership team. During 2015/2016 Cameron held the dual role of General Manager of the Clovelly Estate property, dividing his time between the kitchen and the estate, ensuring the entire guest experience. He completed his apprenticeship at the ‘Two Hatted’ Regional Victorian Restaurant Simone’s of Bright and three years later held the position of Head Chef there for three years.

Cameron was awarded ‘Employee of the Year’ at the Sunshine Coast Business Achiever Awards 2013 and was a national finalist in Country Style Magazine’s 2013 ‘Country Chef of the Year’. He is currently a judge and ambassador for the ‘Delicious Produce Awards’ and is regularly invited to judge Beef & Lamb at the RNA.