Craig Squire, owner operator of Cairns most awarded restaurant, and recognised in Mietta O'Donnells book as one of the top 50 "Great Australian Chefs". Craig, with partners James Fielke and Gabrielle Cooney opened the Red Ochre in 1992 and has now fed thousands of people both in and outside the restaurant. Fantastic corporate events and weddings in a variety of fantastic locations are just part of his everyday routine. Craig is a doting dad to his two sons Jordan (13) and Connor (9). In his free time he loves relaxing with the family, eating and drinking with friends.

1. In three words – what does Cairns mean to you? 
Sun, Sex and Success.

2. What was your first ever job?
Paperboy round when I was 13.

3. For people just starting their own business– what are your 3 success tips?
Consistency, quality, hard work and a patient partner.

4. What business decision, or action have you taken that you are most proud of? 
Successfully catering to thousands and helping make two beautiful children.

5. What do you dislike most about your industry? 
Long hours and missing out on my children's and partner's acitivities. Endless new government legislation which makes life more difficult. Lack of staff professionalism, customers that don't understand the costs involved in producing the meal they see.

6. What motivates you most to go to work each day?
I enjoy my job its never boring, the frienships of the many staff over 12 years, money.

7. If you had an opportunity to change careers for a month – what would you do?
After an 80 hour week last week, nothing. But either a rock star or a racing car driver.

8. Have you ever had a great idea or innovation that wish you had the time to pursue?
Build a bicycle helmet factory in China and then get the government there to change the law to enforce wearing my helmets. Build a mini golf course in Cairns CBD.

9. If you could change one thing about your past, what would it be?
I would have bought property in Port Douglas when I lived there in '84.

10. Tell us  one thing we don't know about you?
My great, great, great, great, great grandmother was the first free settler in South Australia.

11. Who do you aspire to?
No one in particular, Richard Branson is a good business success story.

12. If you could re-live one moment in your life – what would it be?
My first date with Gabrielle, we have been together nearly 26 years. Or slam dancing to the Clash at the Brixton Academy.

13. If you could invite someone famous for dinner (dead or alive) – who would it be?
Elvis or Billy Connelly.

14. When was your last overseas holiday and where?
7 weeks in Bali in 2003, although I did some work in Dubai in January '05. We also have Easter holidays on Magnetic Island.

15. What’s your favourite journey?
Between '87 and '90 Gabrielle and I travelled to 32 countries, we had many amazing journeys. A standout being from Kenya to Zimbabwe by public transport, hitching and walking. A story like that would take a novella to encapsulate.

16. Your favourite time of day?
On our front deck about 6pm when the sun is setting over the Barron Valley and the first drink is taking effect.

17. Your favourite restaurant for that Friday afternoon lunch? 
What a ridiculous question...

18. What music or radio station do you listen to in your car?
ABC local or JJJ or varied CD's, lots of modern lounge beats.

19. Your favourite author or book?
Stephen Donaldson - Thomas Covenant series.

20.What will you be doing when you are 80?
Dead.