“Every so often, the hospitality industry gives us a champion - a bright spark that lights up a room and makes everyone feel that little bit extra special just by being around them. Simon Lay - aka. Charles Bronson from the East - was such a man.”

Australian food writer and television host

Melissa Leong is an Australian food writer, critic, television host, radio broadcaster, cookbook editor, and marketer. She is best known for her work in food media and for appearing as a judge on Australian television. She has written and spoken widely about food across print, radio, and television. Leong is a judge on Network 10's Dessert Masters alongside Amaury Guichon, and she previously judged MasterChef Australia from 2020 to 2023 with Andy Allen and Jock Zonfrillo.