Australia Day Ambassador announced

David Bitton will be in Guyra in his role as Australia Day Ambassador

13th Jan 2026

Celebrated French-born chef David Bitton will visit Guyra as part of his role as an Australia Day Ambassador (ADA) for the Armidale region, bringing with him a powerful story of resilience, gratitude and community spirit.
For David, the ambassador role is a great honour, with 2026 marking his 11th year representing the Australia Day Ambassador Program.
David proudly celebrates the resilience, diversity and generosity that have shaped his journey and continue to inspire communities across Australia. His story is one that reflects the opportunities this country offers and the values it upholds.
Arriving in Australia from France on Anzac Day in 1991 with just two suitcases and one thousand dollars, David embraced his new home with determination and optimism. He quickly built a life that exemplifies the very best of Australian values—hard work, generosity and a strong sense of community.
David’s culinary career began in some of Australia’s most prestigious establishments, including the Ritz-Carlton, Hayman Island, The Windsor Hotel and Sheraton on the Park, where he became Head Chef and cooked for royalty, premiers and international icons. It was during this time that he met his wife and business partner, Sohani, who has been by his side for more than 35 years.
In 2000, David and Sohani opened a small six-table café in Alexandria, which they grew over 25 years into the much-loved Bitton Alexandria, renowned for its quality, warmth and strong community connection. In 2025, David announced the sale of the flagship venue, marking a proud milestone and closing an important chapter in their journey.
The Bitton legacy continues through Bitton Rose Bay, now led by David and his daughter, and through the Bitton gourmet product range, which is stocked nationally, including in Woolworths, ensuring the Bitton name remains firmly part of Australia’s food landscape.
Beyond his restaurants, David’s work has extended into consulting, teaching, industry collaborations and international product launches. In recognition of his contribution to hospitality and cultural connection, he was honoured in 2025 with the Culinary and Gastronomy Award at the French Australian Excellence Awards.
A passionate supporter of charitable causes, David has long been a leading contributor to major fundraising efforts for organisations such as the Mental Wheels Foundation, Lifehouse, and Ronald McDonald House. His commitment to giving back is driven by deep compassion and a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
David Bitton’s visit to Guyra as an Australia Day Ambassador offers a chance for the community to hear firsthand a remarkable story of perseverance, gratitude and the enduring spirit that makes Australia home.

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Australia Day Ambassador announced

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