After years of leading the kitchens of some of Australia’s top luxury resorts, local chef, Craig Robertson, has returned to his roots – quite literally – accepting the role of Executive Chef at Elements of Byron.
Born and raised in Northern NSW, Craig is no stranger to the region’s rich produce, tight-knit food community, and pristine natural surroundings. Now living in Pottsville Beach with his wife and reunited with his two sons, Craig says the move feels like ‘coming home.’
‘I’ve been lucky to work in some incredible places – Hayman Island, Langham Gold Coast, the Hunter Valley – but my heart has always been here,’ he said. ‘It’s where I grew up, it’s where my family is, and honestly, it’s where some of the best ingredients in the country can be found.’
Craig has already begun to make his mark at Elements, rolling out new seasonal menus at Azure Bar & Grill. Diners can expect a strong focus on local ingredients, with dishes like Ballina pipis in crustacean broth, wild-farmed venison with Davidson plum, and a decadent chocolate assiette tower designed for two to share.
His new culinary direction, fondly dubbed Forest to Foreshore, draws directly from the resort’s location between rainforest and beach. ‘We’re using what’s on our doorstep: native herbs from the dunes, fresh seafood from the coast, and produce from nearby producers. It’s about honouring this land and what it gives us.’
Craig’s plans extend beyond the restaurant, with a refresh of Elements’ conference and event menus already underway and more exciting changes planned for summer.
For this homegrown talent, his appointment is about more than just good food – it’s about connection, community, and coming full circle. ‘Being back here, cooking for locals and visitors alike, using ingredients I grew up with – it doesn’t get much better than that.
Elements of Byron
144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay
elementsofbyron.com.au
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
