Simon Toohey is a chef, food advocate, and passionate voice for sustainability. With a background in hospitality and cocktail creation in London, he pioneered zero-waste practices behind the bar, which inspired him to study Gastronomy and explore the deeper connections between food, culture, and community.
He was a finalist on MasterChef Australia in 2019 and returned in 2020, earning widespread recognition for his creative, flavourful plant-forward cooking. His focus on vegetables as the hero of the plate reflects his belief in food as a tool for positive change — for our health, our soil, and our climate.
Simon now hosts Channel 10’s Freshly Picked and started the Sustainable Earth Network, where he advocates for cooking with more vegetables, whole ingredients, and zero food waste. Simon, along with business partner Kieran started the Geelong City Market, a weekly fresh food market on Little Malop Street showcasing the freshest local ingredients, amazing food, drink, and artisanal products the region has to offer. This adventure aims to put Geelong and the Bellarine region on the food map, with the ultimate goal of opening Geelong’s first permanent fresh food market site.
Through his platforms, Simon continues to champion sustainable living and conscious eating, inspiring a more connected relationship with the planet.