TV cook Justine Schofield will demonstrate French-inspired recipes at the free TASTE Camden festival on Sunday 20 September, headlining the annual food event at Camden Town Farm.
Camden Council confirmed the MasterChef Australia alumnus and Everyday Gourmet host as this year’s guest chef on 4 August. Schofield is set to share kitchen tips and seasonal dishes with thousands of visitors across the five-hour program, running from midday to 5pm.
Schofield said the festival’s community focus was what drew her to the event. “Food has an incredible way of bringing people together, and that’s exactly what TASTE Camden is all about,” she said. “I’m looking forward to celebrating the amazing local producers, showcasing simple, delicious recipes, and meeting everyone who shares a love of fresh food and cooking. It’s going to be a fantastic day for the whole family.”
The day will combine gourmet food stalls, artisan makers, live music, licensed areas and family activities across the historic town farm. Mayor Cr Therese Fedeli said Schofield’s approachable style made her the right fit for an event that encourages home cooks to try new things. “Justine has a wonderful way of making incredible food feel approachable, and I’m sure residents and visitors will leave inspired to try something new in their own kitchens,” she said.
TASTE Camden has built a strong track record since launching as a signature council event. The 2025 edition on 21 September drew thousands of people and was described by local media as a triumphant celebration of food, music and community spirit. Earlier years featured chefs including Darren Robertson, but Schofield’s national profile as a bestselling cookbook author and long-time television host marks a step up for the festival. It arrives as Camden’s population surges past 127,000 and is forecast to exceed 240,000 by 2036, making the free, locally focused gathering increasingly important as a connector in Australia’s fastest-growing LGA.
For home cooks and foodies in Sydney’s south-west, the festival offers a rare chance to learn directly from a high-profile chef without a ticket price. Past attendees have described it as “the TASTIEST and FUNNEST FREE day for the whole fam” on social media, and one user noted simply, “We went last year, it was great!”
Unlike weekly inner-city markets such as Glebe or Rozelle, TASTE Camden packs celebrity demonstrations, licensed areas and family entertainment into a single afternoon on a working farm. Schofield’s midday appearance is expected to draw the largest crowd, so arriving before noon is wise if you want a good position near the demonstration stage. Driving is recommended given the limited public transport options, and visitors should check Camden Council’s website closer to 20 September for any event-day parking or shuttle details. Pair the festival with a stroll along Camden’s historic main street or a visit to Bicentennial Park to extend the day.
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Camden Council
Local government authority for the Camden LGA, responsible for community events including TASTE Camden. It governs Australia’s fastest-growing local government area, where the current population of 127,637 is projected to more than double by 2036.
Camden Town Farm
Historic venue in Camden that hosts the annual TASTE Camden food festival and other community events. The site provides a rural backdrop for showcasing local produce and entertainment in Sydney’s growing south-west.
The festival is one of several signature events Camden Council runs each year alongside Australia Day and Christmas celebrations. Full details for TASTE Camden are available on the council website.