In 2024, Teage Ezard received a diagnosis of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a progressive and incurable condition that impacts movement, balance, speech, and emotional regulation.
Yesterday, news of his passing was shared by his family.
“With the heaviest of hearts, we announce that our beloved Teage Ezard has passed away after valiantly battling MSA,” the family expressed in a heartfelt social media post.
“He faced this devastating disease with remarkable courage, humor, wit, and an indomitable spirit, continuing to bring joy and encouragement to others until his final moments.”
Recognized as a pioneering chef who significantly influenced Australian cuisine, he was also a cherished husband, father, son, brother, and friend.
“Teage was passionate about using his experience to raise awareness about MSA and to support research efforts, hoping to spare other families from enduring similar pain,” the family added.
“We’re grieving deeply and ask for privacy.
“Honour him by spreading MSA awareness & supporting Combat MSA.”
Lord Mayor of Melbourne Nick Reece called Ezrad a “visionary” who helped put Melbourne on the map in culinary terms, and “set new standards for Australian hospitality.”
“[His] creativity reshaped the way Melbourne dined,” Reece said.
“Teage was in the vanguard of chefs who revolutionised the Melbourne dining scene in the 1990s and early 2000’s.”
Reece also praised the work of Ezard in creating awareness for MSA, with Ezard and his family creating the Combat MSA organisation.
“He met this cruel disease with courage, humour, wit, and unbreakable spirit, joking and uplifting others until the very end,” Combat MSA said in a post on social media announcing Ezard’s death.
“A legendary chef who shaped Australian dining, he was our devoted husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
“I was scared of dying after the initial shock of the diagnosis, but I’ve accepted time isn’t on my side,” he said at the time.
“It’s hard to have your independence taken away. Tina reassures me, helps me engage in social interactions, monitors my symptoms. Her strength and patience leave me in awe.”
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