Swapping Foils for Fondant! On the Great Australian Bake Off

Move over balayage – there’s a new kind of frosting in Gregson Gastar’s life! East Brisbane local hairdresser Gregson Gastar is stepping out from behind the salon chair and into the Bake Off shed, as one of the contestants on the upcoming season of The Great Australian Bake Off, AEST on Foxtel and BINGE.

Known for his creative flair with colour and cuts, Gregson is about to show the country he can whip up more than just great hairdos.

“My love for baking started with a Women’s Weekly cookbook when I was 10,” says Gregson. “While most kids were outside riding bikes, I was in the kitchen determined to master their chocolate cake recipe. That book was my first taste of how fun cooking could be, and I haven’t stopped since.”

Now 46, Gregson has spent over 30 years as a professional hairdresser, but his passion for food has always simmered on the side. After years of cheering from the sidelines, he’s finally taken the plunge and is stepping into Australia’s most beloved baking competition alongside 11 other passionate home bakers.

“I was mid-foils, toner bowl in one hand, when the call came through, I was going to be on the show,” Gregson adds.

“My client whipped out her phone and started recording without me knowing. I screamed! The whole salon went dead silent, and then I just bawled my eyes out.”

As for what the future holds, Gregson’s hanging onto his hairdressing scissors but dreaming big. “One of my biggest dreams is to run cooking classes that celebrate my Filipino heritage. Sharing the stories, flavours, and traditions I grew up with in a way that’s fun, accessible, and full of heart. And hey, if the stars align, I’d love to take it a step further and create a small TV series one day. Something that blends food, culture, and personality with a dash of chaos!”

To celebrate the premiere, Gregson is hosting a viewing party with two fellow Bake Off contestants, Kelarnie and Aysha.

“We wanted to honour our families and the people who supported us. And let’s be honest – I love a red-carpet moment!”

Originally from Melbourne, Gregson has called Brisbane home for over a decade and is fiercely proud of his community. Since news broke of his Bake Off debut, he’s been flooded with love from friends, clients, and total strangers.

“One message in particular really stopped me in my tracks. They said, ‘I don’t even like baking, but I’ll be watching just because you’re in it. I love your cooking and your vibe.’ I never in a million years thought I could have that kind of impact on someone!” Gastar says.

While it’s his first time baking on national television, this isn’t Gregson’s first on-screen appearance. His wedding to husband Brad was televised on Extreme Weddings: Australia, featuring musical vows, a singing bridal party, and a surprise flash mob.

@epichair_gregson @gregsoncooks @bakeoffau