Seafood isn’t scary.

I'm a Brisbane-based chef with a passion for seafood. Inspired by my family's culinary heritage, I began cooking around age 12, guided by memories of helping my Mum and Dad in the kitchen. My Nonna Yvonne and Pop Ivan have been significant influences on my culinary journey, instilling in me a love for fresh ingredients and the ocean.

My dedication to sustainable seafood drives me to swim for hours in search of crayfish, even in shark-infested waters (Lily loves this). I find immense reward in sharing dishes I've personally harvested with family and friends, honouring the respect for fresh produce instilled in me by my family.

Beyond the kitchen, I'm obsessed with the outdoors. I’ve worked as a snowboarding instructor in Japan and New Zealand. I get my kicks surfing, diving, spearfishing, hiking, and travelling.

Drawing inspiration from chefs like Josh Niland, Taku from Outdoor Chef Life, and Roy and Anna Turner of Haggerstone Island, I combine fresh Australian seafood with Italian, French, and Asian flavours and techniques. My dream is to open a laid-back seafood bar called "Fins n’ Tins," where quality seafood, good beer, wine, and live music come together.

With the support of my wife Lily and our dog Gnocchi, I'm excited to embark on my MasterChef Australia journey and pursue my passion for food.

Thank you for being part of my journey.

Let’s go fishing soon,

Harry Butterfield