The Local Palate

In this episode of The Local Palate, Cam O’Keefe sits down with Mike Jacques, executive chef of TARRA Queenscliff, a waterfront restaurant redefining what destination dining looks like on the Bellarine. From Michelin-starred kitchens in the UK to leading one of the region’s most unique dining rooms beside the ferry terminal, Mike shares how place has reshaped the way he cooks. He reflects on build...

In this episode of The Local Palate, Cam O’Keefe sits down with Andy Pobjoy, the founder of Piano Bar — a Geelong institution that’s brought people together through song, storytelling and good times for over ten years. From his days performing on cruise ships to navigating COVID livestreams and the pressures of modern hospitality, Andy reflects on what it takes to keep a venue thriving in a changi...

In this episode of The Local Palate , Cam O’Keefe sits down with Steven Paul, General Manager at Oakdene Wines and one of the driving forces behind Geelong’s wine reputation. From cellar door tourism to alternative varietals and the future of Australian wine, Steven shares insights from over two decades in the industry. He talks about what makes Geelong unique, how the wine show scene has evolved,...

In this episode of The Local Palate, Cam O’Keefe sits down with Hugo T Armstrong — founder of the Blues Train, long-time festival director, and one of Geelong’s most passionate live music advocates. From the early days of Queenscliff Music Festival to food trucks, venue culture and the pressures facing today’s promoters, Hugo shares stories from three decades in events and entertainment. It’s a co...

In this episode of The Local Palate , Cam O’Keefe is joined by Tracy Carter, Executive Director of Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine. From pandemic recovery to mentoring programs, new events and the game-changing Convention Centre on the horizon, Tracy shares how she and her team are helping local venues not just survive but thrive. She reflects on what’s changed for the region, the import...

In the debut episode of The Local Palate , Cam O’Keefe sits down with Torquay chef and restaurateur Graham Jefferies, the force behind the reinvented Samesyn 2.0. From a kitchen with no bin to a menu built on rescued ingredients, Graham shares how a post-pandemic pivot led to a bold new purpose. He opens up about food waste, sustainability, partnering with Feed Me, and how his small team of chefs...

Here's a taste of The Local Palate with Cam O'Keef