MEET THE TEAM - Catalina Rose Bay
“We are so proud of our dedicated and talented team at Catalina.
We couldn’t be more grateful for their hard work and commitment
in delivering what we believe to be ONE OF the best ALL-ROUND dining experienceS in Sydney.”
- Judy, James and Kate McMahon
Director, Judy McMahon
Judy McMahon is one of Australian hospitality’s quiet heroes.
She began her career working with her late husband Michael at the legendary Bulletin Place then in 1978, then made the move to Gay and Tony Bilson's Berowra Waters Inn. In 1983, she and Michael purchased Barrenjoey House in Palm Beach, working with a young Neil Perry and subsequently opening Perry's in Paddington with him. By 1988, Judy and Michael had sold both restaurants, and moved to work together at the legendary Bilson’s at Circular Quay, where Judy was Function Manager. In 1994, Judy and Michael purchased Catalina, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Judy has been a central part of the restaurant’s success for the last 29 years and continues to lead the team today alongside her son, James, and daughter, Kate.
Restaurant Manager, James McMahon
James was, as he explains it, born to work in hospitality.
James followed his parents into restaurants, and cut his teeth at some of Australia’s most famous fine diners such as banc, Buon Ricordo and est., as well as Sydney favourites Rockpool Bar and Grill and China Doll.
In his role as Restaurant Manager, James now runs the restaurant and dining room, overseeing the team, culture, and operations of the restaurant.
Event Manager, Kate McMahon
Kate, like her brother James, was destined for a career in hospitality.
Kate joined the Merivale Group in 2005, and worked across some of its high-profile venues such as Hemmesphere and Ivy before joining Catalina in 2008 as Restaurant Manager.
Kate’s speciality is events, and her famed annual New Year's Day party quickly became an iconic event on Sydney’s party calendar.
Kate heads the restaurant team alongside James, and has recently taken over as Catalina’s Event Manager, expanding the role from booking, advising and implementing, to include event styling, supplier procurement and event management from start to finish.
Executive Chef, Mark Axisa
Mark Axisa is the man who shapes the culinary experience at Catalina. Food is his lifelong passion, a fact he attributes to the influence of his Maltese mother and her love of cooking.
Mark began working at Catalina as an apprentice, and having worked his way his way through all areas in the Catalina kitchen, was appointed Executive Chef in 2015.
Mark's long association with Catalina ensures that his team delivers the stellar food so loved by its loyal clientele, whilst encouraging the development of exciting new dishes to sit alongside the Catalina favourites.
Head Chef, Alan O’Keeffe
After studying hospitality and tourism in his hometown of Dublin, Alan O’Keefe completed his apprenticeship at the famous five-star Merrion Hotel before relocating to Australia.
In 2008, he joined the Catalina team as Chef de Partie and in 2014, was appointed Head Chef.
Alan is entrusted with the development of Catalina’s famous menus, and they reflect his love of beautiful Australian produce, as well as his ongoing and evolving interest in the traditions of European, Middle-Eastern and Asian cuisine.
He works hand-in-glove with Australia’s best suppliers to build menus that capture the best of what is local, seasonal and aligned with Catalina’s stunning waterside setting.
Beverage Manager/Head Sommelier, Andrew de Vries
Restaurant Manager, Giovanni Ripani
Bar Manager, Alessandro Cavaliere
Assistant Manager, Gilly Fenton
Assistant Manager, Carlos Pinilla
Assistant Head Sommelier, Pauline Perotto
Assistant Head Sommelier, Javier Coindreau
Sommelier, Jarrod Mills
Junior Sommelier, Hugo Romeu
Head Waiter, Hamish McPhie
Office Manager, Christine Saltos
JOIN OUR TEAM
Since opening our doors 29 years ago, Catalina has consistently maintained the reputation as being one of Australia’s great fine dining destination restaurants.
We are always interested in hearing from experienced candidates who are enthusiastic, self-motivated and like us, are passionate about impeccable service, amazing food and great wine.
If you are interested in joining our supportive and dynamic team, please forward your resume to reservations@catalinarosebay.com.au.