How Long have you been a Cook at 7I Wharf?

I have been at 71 Wharf for seven months now. I was offered the position here and snapped it up straight away. It is in a great spot with a great crew.

What inspired you to be a Cook, and how long have you been one?

I have been cooking for seventeen years now. I started by doing a school-based Apprenticeship on the Sunshine Coast. I have a few more modules to complete before I am classed as a qualified Chef.

What do you love the most about the Fraser Coast?

I moved from the Sunshine Coast to the Fraser Coast two years ago with my wife who had family here. I also liked the change of atmosphere as Maryborough is a relaxed town. I have a young son, we go to the park, and to the beach at the bay.

What is the most popular dish on the 71 Wharf menu and why?

On our lunch menu, the Honey Sesame Prawns are the most popular. The salad is so fresh as is the fruit. The prawns are freshly cooked as well. On our dinner menu, the Seafood Platter is a winner. The platter consists of Moreton bay Bugs, crab, approximately a dozen whole prawns, oysters natural, and oysters Kilpatrick with hot seafood mornay in the centre. With the seafood platter, you also get a free bottle of wine.

What would be the best way, to sum up your menu?

We have a few exotic items on our menu. We have a duck breast on a bed of risotto, and we have just introduced a spiced kangaroo. Then we have the basics that everyone loves like our steaks and lamb. We also have mussels in a chef’s sauce of the week.

Do you buy from local suppliers?

We use B Mart for our fruit and vegetables, Urangan Fisheries and our global supplier is from Bundaberg.

What are your favourite foods to cook with?

I like to play around with a lot of harder foods like the kangaroo, I enjoy working on getting the balance right between spices and other ingredients. I actually enjoy anything that will give me a challenge.

What do you think sets 71 Wharf apart from other Cafes/Restaurants?

Definitely our location. The view is fantastic and very relaxing. I believe we have the best outlook in Maryborough. We are fully licensed and have live music every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm.