Matt’s demanding and busy schedule as head chef/owner of Gwylo at Mollymook and his interest in the Lagom Bakery at Burrill Lake does not hinder his enthusiasm and ongoing support to be a positive contributor to the SFN events and other community focused work, including his voluntary role on the board of the “Our Town”, a not for profit group organizing waste free music events with a focus on food and beverage.
Through his commitment to pursuing and refining a passion for food and the industry Matt has actively been a part of training many apprentices and inspiring our youth/school leavers to follow hospitality as a career path. We cannot thank him enough for being part of this shared vision of the Shoalhaven Food Network.
Where are you from? And what has led you to the Shoalhaven?
Originally from Western Australia, I've spent time in Western Samoa, Tasmania, Mt Gambier/Adelaide/ victor Harbor, Asia, Europe, Port Douglas, Noosa, Byron.
I ended up on Lord Howe Island and Kangaroo Island. I met my wife who is originally from this area, in Byron Bay. We travelled a lot and decided to move back to Mollymook to start a family at the end of 2009.
How did your hospitality career begin?
Working in Le Cavalier in Mt Gambier in the dish pit. They asked if I wanted to cook on Sundays which lead to an apprenticeship.
What drives your passion?
The satisfaction of seeing people enjoy eating, laughing + celebrating good times over food - helping create those feel good moments.
What is the highlight of your career?
There's so many! Having my own restaurant filled with awesome staff & feeling supported by an amazing community is a big one but having the opportunity to have worked in some pretty spectacular places has been a huge highlight
Can you share your thoughts on sourcing and using local produce and how you integrate this into your menu?
It's important to support our local farmers and growers as well as focusing on low mileage food; I try to menu plan around available produce where possible.
What is your advice for anyone wishing to choose a career in hospitality?
It's a great gateway for meeting people, travelling; a career that allows for growth and insight into different cultures. You only get out of life what you put in DON’T BE AFRAID OF HARD WORK!!
