MEET the incredible team at The wilderness chef

COOPER THOMAS

FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE CHEF

Hey, I’m Cooper — a chef, adventurer, and the guy behind The Wilderness Chef. I’ve spent over a decade in the hospitality world, and these days, I specialise in bringing restaurant-quality dining experiences to some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring locations you can imagine.

Whether I’m setting up a long lunch under gum trees, serving canapés by the ocean, or serving an extensive feast on a snow-covered mountain, the mission is always the same: create unforgettable dining experiences in wild, beautiful places.

I’m based in Newcastle, NSW, and regularly cater across the Hunter Valley, Central Coast, Nelson Bay, Sydney, and the Blue Mountains. But the road doesn’t stop there, my work has taken me interstate and internationally, and I’m always up for chasing the next location that takes your breath away.

Outside of the kitchen, you’ll usually find me trail running, camping, climbing, mountain biking, or foraging… always chasing flavour, adventure, and a good place to cook up a feast.

I believe great food should be honest, seasonal, and sourced with intention. That’s why I love working with local producers and creating food that connects people to place.

If that sounds like your kind of vibe, let’s talk about your wedding or event and bring something truly memorable to the table.

MEET OUR INCREDIBLE TEAM

Our team is made up of highly skilled and passionate professionals with extensive experience across the hospitality, restaurant, and catering industries. We operate with a strong business model that prioritises exceptional quality, personalised service, and meticulous attention to detail. Currently, our core team includes four full-time lead chefs, Amy, our Client Relations Manager, and Liam, our Social Media and Marketing Manager, each contributing their expertise to ensure seamless operations and an outstanding client experience.

We’re incredibly proud to have maintained 100% employee retention. In the past eight years, not a single team member has left. We invest heavily in recruiting the right people, supporting professional development, fostering team engagement, and building a workplace culture our team is genuinely proud to be part of.