As Pair’d Margaret River Region draws near, we’re celebrating the creators and cultural leaders who shape unforgettable experiences.

Grant Smillie is a celebrated DJ, producer, and entrepreneur whose music has earned two ARIA Awards and taken him from Australia to Los Angeles and beyond. Beyond the decks, Grant has founded ID Collective and the Botanical Hospitality Group, creating acclaimed venues and elevated dining experiences. Grant tells us what draws him to the Margaret River Region, the joy of combining music and food, and what guests can expect from his Pair’d appearance at the New Wave Gathering this November.

WHEN DID YOU LAST VISIT THE MARGARET RIVER REGION? WHAT CAPTURED YOUR HEART? 

I have previously been to Margaret River, coming in 2024 to Pair’d. One of my favourite places to go is Bunker Bay with its pristine white sand and pods of dolphins playing in the shallows. It’s a pretty magical experience.

WHAT FUELS YOUR LOVE FOR FOOD AND WINE? CAN YOU PINPOINT WHEN IT ALL BEGAN?

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly where it started. As a DJ, I would fly all over the world, and local promoters would always take me to the best restaurants in their cities when I played. I often then got to meet chefs and restaurateurs who would come along to the gigs after dinner, and I made some great friends that way. To this day, I plan holidays around where I want to eat and the reservations I can secure. It’s a passion that will never go away.

WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING OR UNEXPECTED PAIRING YOU’VE EVER TASTED?

I was eating at Mischa Tropp’s Kolkata Cricket Club and having some Kerala dishes. The Sommelier recommended, rather than a Riesling to cut through the complex spices, a sparkling rosé. It was actually a really delicious match.

DO YOU HAVE A GO-TO, FOOLPROOF PAIRING THAT NEVER FAILS?

When I was living in LA, it was always the thing on Sundays: Champagne and fried chicken. If you were feeling extra fabulous, add on some caviar.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NOVEMBER, WHAT CAN GUESTS EXPECT FROM YOUR PAIR’D EVENT, NIGHT HAWKER?

The New Wave Gathering is a great mix of local winemakers, music and fun food. I’ll be bringing the heat with some friends on the music front, and this year, vinyl will be at the forefront. Expect some classics and some rare gems from my personal collection.

IF YOU COULD TAG ONE CHEF OR WINEMAKER FOR THE 2026 LINE-UP, WHO WOULD IT BE?

I am looking forward to hanging with Josh Niland again. We spent some time together in LA and then at Coachella when he came over in 2024. He is defining a new era of fish cookery and a great fella to boot!

WHAT’S ON YOUR KITCHEN PLAYLIST?

I like so many different records, but Moon Safari by AIR or St Germain Tourist are a couple of albums you can drop the needle on and leave.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO TRAVEL FOR FESTIVALS LIKE PAIR’D? WHAT DO YOU TAKE HOME, LESSONS, INSPIRATION, OR CONNECTIONS, FROM THESE EXPERIENCES?

Travel, full stop, is one of life’s great joys. See new things, meet new people, try some new food and drink. You can’t do this at home. Join us!

DO YOU HAVE ANY EXCITING NEWS TO SHARE?

Nothing crazy! A few new restaurant projects landing in 2026 in Melbourne and Adelaide, plus some time in New York and London doing some scouting. Looking forward to seeing you in WA!

We’re thrilled to have Mendy Indigo joining us at Night Hawker at Chow’s Table. This event is sold out, but make sure to join the waitlist to secure your chance to attend.