Meet the team

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Jeff’s journey to becoming a chef started with a love for food, cooking, and a childhood passion for footy. Coming from a family of talented cooks and growing up surrounded by diverse cultures, Jeff was exposed to a variety of flavors and textures that sparked his curiosity about creating dishes. While his footy dreams didn’t pan out, his culinary ambitions flourished, and he hasn’t looked back since.

When it comes to favorite dishes, Jeff has a hard time choosing. “It’s like asking my parents who their favorite is—though I know it’s me!” he jokes. What he truly enjoys is crafting creative weekly specials that showcase his love for experimenting with flavors and techniques.

With over 20 years of experience, Jeff has worked in some of Sydney’s best kitchens. His career highlights include Café del Mar on Sydney Harbour, Saxs Café Lounge and Bar in Barangaroo, and The Hermitage in Campbelltown—a personal favorite. His expertise spans Southeast Asian, French, Italian, modern Australian cuisines, and beyond, with a passion for seafood and meats. He’s always eager to expand his skills and learn something new.

What’s unique about Jeff? His talent for cooking and his easygoing, fun personality. Outside of the kitchen, he enjoys staying fit at the gym and doesn’t mind relaxing with a drink or two—especially in the company of the locals!

Jevi’s passion for food began in her childhood in the Philippines, where food is a cornerstone of culture and community. For Jevi, food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together. Seeing friends and families enjoy meals that make them feel at home is what inspires her as a chef.

Her favorite dish to cook is Crispy Eggplant, not only for the joy of preparing it but also for its incredible flavor.

While Jevi doesn’t focus on a single style of cuisine, she loves exploring and learning about different flavors, which fuels her passion for travel. This curiosity has shaped her diverse culinary approach.

Before joining this team, Jevi spent nearly five years working at a resort in South Durras, NSW, where she gained invaluable experience and honed her skills.

A fun fact about Jevi? She’s a motorbike enthusiast who still enjoys playing video games—a combination of hobbies that keeps her both energised and entertained!

Hari Pant draws inspiration from his mother, whose cooking and dedication to family meals sparked his passion for food. He continues to learn from her ability to create delicious dishes with love and care.

Hari’s favorite dish is lemon pepper barramundi, a meal he appreciates for its distinct flavor and simplicity in preparation. His culinary style leans toward Western cuisine, often blending it with Italian influences to craft unique and flavorful creations.

As a team member at Brighton Food and Wine Bar in Adelaide, Hari is known for his patience, humility, and friendly approach, making him a cherished part of the team and a delight to customers.

Rohit’s culinary inspiration stems from his mother, whose passion for home cooking introduced him to the art of creating delicious meals. Growing up in Nepal, a land-locked country with a rich culinary heritage, Rohit developed a love for cooking and sharing food with loved ones.

Mo:Mo, a traditional Nepali dumpling, is Rohit’s favorite dish to prepare. It reminds him of his roots and the warm memories of cooking alongside family.

Before joining Steampacket, Rohit gained valuable experience working at Sam’s Pizza in Batemans Bay, NSW. Known for his humble nature, patience, and friendly attitude, Rohit takes pride in delivering dishes that reflect his passion for food and hospitality.

Soraya loves the dynamic nature of the hospitality industry, where there’s always something new to explore. From innovative drinks and food to emerging technology, the ever-changing landscape and variety of roles within the workplace keep her engaged and excited.

Her go-to knock-off drink? In summer, it’s a refreshing cold sour beer to beat the heat. In winter, she prefers a rich Shiraz, perfect for warming the soul on chilly evenings.

Soraya describes herself as a “jack of all trades, master of none,” with experience across bar, floor, and function roles, making her a versatile and valuable team member.

Before joining the team, Soraya worked at The Sandbar, Starfish Deli, and On the Pier, along with other venues across the country, building a wealth of experience.

A fun and unique fact about Soraya? She has two differently shaped thumbs—a small quirk that makes her one of a kind!

Prakash’s journey to becoming a chef stems from his lifelong passion for food and cooking. Growing up, he was captivated by how food brings people together and creates shared joy. After moving to Australia, he pursued studies in commercial cookery, discovering his true calling in creating dishes that make people happy.

Pizza holds a special place in Prakash’s heart as his favorite dish to cook. With over four years of experience perfecting pizza-making, he loves the process of crafting the perfect dough, selecting fresh ingredients, and baking it to perfection. It’s not just the taste but the joy it brings to others that fuels his passion.

Specializing in pizza-making, Prakash combines expertise in creating balanced flavors with a versatile background in hospitality and commercial cookery. Before joining the Steam Packet Hotel, he honed his skills at Seamore’s Restaurant and Bar in Henley Beach, South Australia, where he thrived in a fast-paced environment.

A fun fact about Prakash? He’s always experimenting with new pizza recipes, combining unique toppings and flavors to surprise and delight guests. For him, it’s all about making every dining experience memorable!

Rob thrives in the hospitality industry, drawn to its ever-evolving nature, the opportunity to meet new people, and the camaraderie of being part of a team that feels like a second family.

His knock-off drink of choice? Lemon 196—a refreshing pick that hits the spot every time.

With experience across all areas of hospitality, Rob now specializes in bar management at the Steampacket, where his expertise and passion shine.

Before joining the team, Rob was the Food & Beverage Manager at Murramarang Resort, a role he held for an impressive nine years, honing his skills and leadership abilities.

A fun fact about Rob? He’s a motor enthusiast who loves anything with an engine, especially when it’s on two wheels!

Jake has been with the Steampacket since the very beginning, on-site from the moment the first hammer swung under new ownership. His knowledge of the pub’s operations comes from being involved in every step of its transformation. Whether behind the scenes or chatting with locals, he is never far from the action.

With experience working for  hospitality icons like The Mulberry Group (The Beach House, Kettle Black, Hazel) and breweries such as Prickly Moses and Blackmans Brewery or the Great Ocean Road Chocoleterie, Jake knows how to set up venues and build strong team cultures.

A passionate AFL fan, Jake has helped foster a partnership with the Batemans Bay Seahawks AFL Club and works closely with other local businesses and organisations.

When it’s knock-off time, Jake enjoys a sour beer, especially the Rose Petal Sour from Broulee, or a chilled rose at home with an abundance of seafood.

Ben thrives in the hospitality industry, finding joy in delivering customer satisfaction, fostering teamwork, and exploring new dishes and drinks. His passion for creating memorable experiences shines through in every interaction.
When it comes to recommendations, Ben suggests a gin and tonic with cucumber for a refreshing pick on a hot day. He’s also a fan of the chef’s revisited chicken Caesar salad—a modern twist on a classic that combines fresh flavors with creativity.
With a decade of experience, Ben’s hospitality career began in France, where he honed his skills before bringing his expertise to Australia. 

His off-duty indulgence? A chilled glass of white wine paired with a board of cheese and charcuterie—a perfect way to unwind.

A fun fact about Ben? What started as a trip to Australia turned into a life-changing adventure. He fell in love with the country and decided to make it his permanent home!

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