The Narooma Precinct is part of the Merivale portfolio, located on the stunning NSW South Coast. Bringing together The Quarterdeck, Lynch’s and The Whale – featuring Dan Hong’s Queen Chow – this is a truly unique coastal offering.
Set against pristine beaches and ocean views, the precinct celebrates fresh local produce, relaxed dining and high-quality execution across multiple venues. With a strong local following and consistent tourism trade, this is a high-volume, multi-faceted operation with real scale and opportunity.
The Role
We’re looking for an experienced Breakfast Chef de Partie to join the team at The Whale. This is a key role focused on delivering consistently exceptional breakfast service for both hotel guests and locals in a busy coastal setting.
You’ll take ownership of your section, working with fresh, seasonal produce and supporting a smooth, high-quality breakfast service every day.
Deliver consistently high-quality breakfast dishes with precision, speed and pride
Set the tone for the guest experience through strong execution and attention to detail
Work with outstanding local produce and showcase the South Coast offering
Take ownership of your section and contribute to a calm, well-organised breakfast service
Maintain high standards across food safety, preparation and service consistency
Support menu execution while adapting to a high-volume, guest-focused environment
Work closely with the broader kitchen team to ensure smooth daily operations
Contribute to a positive, professional kitchen culture focused on standards and teamwork
The Lifestyle
If you’re ready to step away from the city and into a life shaped by ocean views, fresh coastal air, incredible local seafood and a warm, tight-knit community – this could be your moment.
Working in Narooma offers more than a chef role; it’s an opportunity to embrace a lifestyle that many only experience on holidays. Start your mornings by the ocean, finish your shift with the beach at your doorstep, and become part of a community that values connection, adventure and balance.
Narooma delivers a true outdoor lifestyle, with year-round swimming, surfing, mountain biking and endless time in nature. It’s also home to world-class diving at nearby Montague Island, making it the perfect place for anyone who loves adventure and an active, outdoor community.
Benefits
Merivale Employee Benefits
25% staff discount across 90+ Merivale venues
Exclusive monthly perks, staff-only rewards and events
Merivale Staff Cellar – access to premium wines at staff pricing
Unlimited career growth with endless development opportunities
Merivale Academy – online and in-person training, including Leadership & Performance, First Aid, Food Safety and more
Employee Assistance Program – confidential wellbeing and mental health support, provided by Sonder
Employee Referral Program – earn rewards for bringing great people on board
Paid parental leave with flexible return-to-work support
Potential sponsorship pathways available to suitable candidates