Renowned Sydney restaurateur Michael McMahon has died of heart complications after battling heart disease for many years. Reports indicate that Mr. McMahon was on the waiting list for a heart transplant.

The internet has been flooded with tributes for the hospitality veteran. Matt Moran took to Twitter to say, “so sad to hear of the passing of Michael McMahon, what a legend of our industry, condolences to Judy and family. Thinking of you guys.” Neil Perry has also paid tribute to his former mentor. “RIP Michael McMahon. Legend and wonderful mentor. Thank you for giving a young 25-year-old nobody an opportunity of a lifetime at Barrenjoey House in 1982. With success at Bilson’s and then the longevity of Catalina, you truly created iconic Australian restaurants,” he posted on Instagram.

Catalina, which is located on the picturesque waters of Rose Bay, celebrated it’s 25th-anniversary last year. The waterfront diner is considered a fixture of the Sydney dining scene and is frequented by the Eastern Suburbs social set as well as big-name celebrities, like Beyonce, Leonardo DiCaprio, Charlize Theron, Al Pacino, Kylie Minogue, Katy Perry and more. The restaurant has recently closed down due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr. McMahon and his wife Judy began their careers at the legendary wine bar Bulletin Place. In 1978, they then made the move to Gay and Tony Bilson’s Berowra Waters Inn, before purchasing Barrenjoey House in 1983. Catalina was added to the portfolio in 1994.

Michael Mahon is survived by his wife Judy, his children Paul, James and Kate and his grandchildren Matilda, William, Ethan and Isobel.