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'Dreaming Big': The journey of a Filipina chef from Bulacan now making her mark in Rockhampton, Queensland

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From Balagtas, Bulacan to Rockhampton, Australia, Chef Diosa Marie Acol turned her passion for cooking into a career. Now sharing Filipino favourites like adobo and palabok at Rockhampton Leagues Club, she proves hard work, dedication, and love for food know no borders. Credit: Diosa Marie Acol

Chef Diosa Marie Acol started cooking at just 18 in the Philippines. Little did she know that a Facebook ad after the pandemic would lead her all the way to Australia


Key Points
  • Originally from Balagtas, Bulacan, Chef Diosa Marie Acol finished a two-year Food Technology program. She began her career working in quality control at various commissaries before transitioning into her role as a cook.
  • Chef Diosa Marie Acol from the Philippines is a self-taught chef. She arrived in Australia in 2023 on a Subclass 400 visa. After being sponsored by her employer and successfully passing the required exams and skills assessment in November 2025, she was granted a working visa.
  • Filipino dishes have officially become part of the menu at Rockhampton Leagues Club, according to Chef Diosa.
  • The city of Rockhampton is recognised as the Beef Capital of Australia.
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Filipino Chef Marie Acol of Rockhampton Leagues Club was named Rockstar of the Year 2025 for her outstanding service and dedication to the company. Credit: Diosa Marie Acol
Cooking is not just a job for me. It is a blessing from the Lord. In every dish I prepare, I share love that can be felt by everyone who eats it. Perhaps this is my true mission in life.
Chef Diosa Marie Acol, Rockhampton Leagues Club, Queensland
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Chef Diosa Marie Acol sees her journey to Australia as a blessing, inspiring her to work hard and foster strong bonds with her colleagues in gratitude for the opportunities given to her. Credit: Diosa Marie Acol
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Chef Diosa Marie Acol is determined to make her employers, her family, and her Filipino heritage proud every step of the way. Credit: Diosa Marie Acol

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