Eamon Eastwood
Food Entrepreneur
A life in Australia
As Founder and CEO of Taste, Eamon Eastwood leads a multi-channel food distribution company that specialises in bringing iconic and innovative flavours to the Australian market, uniting our cultures. He is also a passionate advocate for youth entrepreneurship, supporting programs that inspire innovation in young minds. He also looks to promote and develop the GAA in Austalia, fostering community and connection through sport.
How long have you been living in Australia and what brought you there?
“I’ve been in Australia since 1999. I originally arrived as a backpacker to work at the 2000 Olympics, having studied marketing at university and completed an export graduate program in the US. It was curiosity that brought me here, a desire to explore a new country - but after a short stay, I fell in love with the place and decided to make it my long-term home.”
How long have you been living in Australia and what brought you there?
“I’ve been in Australia since 1999. I originally arrived as a backpacker to work at the 2000 Olympics, having studied marketing at university and completed an export graduate program in the US. It was curiosity that brought me here, a desire to explore a new country - but after a short stay, I fell in love with the place and decided to make it my long-term home.”
Tell us about your work
“At its core, my work is about creating community and a sense of belonging. We do this through iconic Irish food brands, which serve as a tangible connection between Ireland and Australia. Our business imports, distributes, and sells these brands across multiple channels, including eCommerce, independent retailers, pubs, delis, convenience stores, and major supermarkets.
We manage the full supply chain - from sea freight imports to warehousing and national distribution - ensuring that Irish expats and the wider Australian market have access to the foods that mean so much to them.”
How important are Irish business and community networks in Sydney?
“The Irish business and community networks were instrumental in the foundation and growth of our business. We officially launched in 2004 at an Irish Consulate event in Sydney, and from the beginning, we’ve partnered with Irish organisations across the board—from the GAA and Irish Film Festival to the Lansdowne Club, the Gaelic Club, Queer Irish, Irish dancing groups, and charitable organisations. These connections gave us a strong foundation, helping us grow and sustain the business for over 20 years.”
How important are Irish business and community networks in Sydney?
“The Irish business and community networks were instrumental in the foundation and growth of our business. We officially launched in 2004 at an Irish Consulate event in Sydney, and from the beginning, we’ve partnered with Irish organisations across the board—from the GAA and Irish Film Festival to the Lansdowne Club, the Gaelic Club, Queer Irish, Irish dancing groups, and charitable organisations. These connections gave us a strong foundation, helping us grow and sustain the business for over 20 years.”
Who would you consider an inspirational Irish person in business?
“The Collison brothers, John and Patrick, have been a huge inspiration in recent years. Their success with Stripe proves that Irish entrepreneurs can compete on a global stage, regardless of location. Ireland’s education system and the tech ecosystem built over the last 30+ years are now creating world-class opportunities. The Collisons' journey has undoubtedly inspired hundreds of start-ups across Ireland, showcasing what’s possible with ambition and innovation.”
