Judy is the Owner/operator of CATALINA Restaurant, Rose Bay, an enduring Sydney restaurant icon and harbourside gem, which recently celebrated its 30th birthday.
Judy was born in New Zealand and made her way to Sydney in 1978. She began her career working with her late husband Michael at Len Evans’ legendary Bulletin Place, 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 Event 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 over 30 years and continues to lead the team today alongside her son, James, and daughter, Kate.
Judy is a board member of ARCA (Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association).