Dean Smith

Founding Director & Sommelier (WSET3/CMS Certified)

With a passion for sharing his vast knowledge and expertise with the local community, Dean founded Sunny Rays Catering. His vision was simple: to offer the highest quality service, exceptional food, fine wines, and expert event planning for every special occasion. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large celebration, Dean ensures that each event is uniquely tailored to surpass expectations.

Dean’s hospitality journey has taken him to more than 100 countries, where he spent over 10 years immersing himself in diverse cultures and cuisines. His experiences span across five countries on four continents, ranging from learning permaculture farming techniques in the Americas to earning prestigious fine dining accreditations throughout Europe.

Dean is a qualified Chef, with trade certifications, and has earned a Level 3 Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) certification. He is also a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, demonstrating his expertise in wine pairing and service. As the Licensee of Sunny Rays Catering, Dean holds a Responsible Management of a Licensed Venue (RMLV) certification, ensuring top-tier service and compliance in every event.

Dean’s qualifications are further complemented by a Certificate III in Hospitality Operations from TAFE Mooloolaba and a Bachelor of Business (Advertising) from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). With this blend of formal education, practical experience, and a deep passion for hospitality, Dean continues to lead Sunny Rays Catering in creating unforgettable events for all who seek a truly remarkable experience.

Brent Ashley

Executive Chef

Brent has been at the helm of creating unforgettable menus and crafting exceptional dining experiences for many years. With an innate culinary flair, he has built a reputation for blending creativity and precision in every dish he prepares.

Chef Brent’s passion lies in Asian Fusion cuisine, where he artfully combines traditional flavors with innovative techniques to create truly unique dishes.

Whether it’s a delicate appetiser or a perfectly cooked main course, Brent ensures that every plate tells a story of local and international flavors, reflecting his deep understanding of ingredients from all over the world.

Brent’s love for travel is a key part of the culinary journey. He has explored 14 countries, immersing himself in the diverse food cultures of regions like Italy, France, Hong Kong, and Vietnam. Each destination offers new experiences and inspirations that Chef Brent brings back to the kitchen, enhancing the dishes he creates. By integrating authentic ingredients and traditional cooking methods from around the globe, he offers a true culinary adventure. 

At the heart of Chef Brent’s philosophy is a commitment to using the finest, freshest ingredients and celebrating the vibrant, multi-layered tastes of every region he encounters. His dishes are a reflection of his travels—culturally rich, boldly flavored, and expertly crafted—to ensure that each dining experience is nothing short of extraordinary for our guests.