Kim Stephen, the creative director and co-founder of the popular restaurant chain Light Years, has died unexpectedly at the age of 40 following a battle with mental health. The Byron Bay-based restaurateur, who turned 40 earlier this month, was remembered by his family and colleagues as a visionary whose creativity shaped the hospitality industry.
In a social media tribute, Light Years restaurant said: 'Kim was the magic, the imagination, the intuition and the spark behind everything we built. His ideas shaped our venues, our people and the experiences we share with our guests.' The post also thanked the local community for their support during this difficult time.
Mr Stephen is survived by his fiancée Peta Van De Velde and their 18-month-old son Sebastian. In a heartfelt tribute, Ms Van De Velde urged any man 'fighting battles the world can't see' to find the courage to ask for help. She added: 'Kim was my partner in life and in business. We will carry on building the empire Kim started, honouring his legacy and his creative genius.'
His brother, Ry Stephen, a pastry chef behind Supermoon Bakehouse in New York, said Kim carried an 'insatiable curiosity for global cuisines, matched only by his obsession with showcasing each dish in a space worthy of its story.' Leonie Hemsworth, mother of actors Chris, Liam and Luke, also paid tribute, remembering him as a beloved member of the Byron Bay community and a brilliant DJ.
Light Years, a modern Asian diner, first opened in Byron Bay in 2017 and expanded to Noosa, Newcastle, the Gold Coast and Perth. The restaurant was shortlisted for the 2023 Australian Interior Design Awards. Mr Stephen co-founded the chain with James Sutherland and Robbie Oijvall.
