CONTENT WARNING: This article discusses allegations of sexual assault and misconduct.
Popular restaurateur Maurice Terzini has broken his silence on shocking claims against his son Sylvester Terzini, stating the “devastating” allegations that his son engaged in sexual misconduct over several years “have no place in our venues, industry or society”.
On March 14, the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age reported there were at least nine alleged victims between 2016 and 2023, including claims of oral and anal rape, following a months-long investigation. Sylvester has denied the allegations against him.
Per the publications, text messages indicated Maurice may have been aware of some of the claims against his son, and it was reported he would take a leave of absence from the business as investors launched a probe into the allegations.
In an Instagram post this past weekend, the restaurateur — whose businesses in Sydney and Melbourne include Bondi’s Icebergs Dining Room, CicciaBella, Jacksons on George and Snack Kitchen — stated the allegations made against one of his family members have been “hurtful” as well as damaging to his reputation.
He refuted claims that he was aware of the allegedly violent behaviour or that he intended to “cover up” issues within any of [his] businesses.
“There are private health matters concerning one of my family members, where professional counsel has been sought. The allegations are not ones against me directly yet the inferences have been hurtful and damaging to my reputation,” Maurice wrote in a statement on Saturday, March 22.
“Processes and resources are in place in my businesses to ensure that all of our valued and loyal staff and our much loved guests feel safe in our environments and that issues at any time can be raised. I have taken some leave to allow my family some space and to ensure that my business partners can conduct the independent reviews that they deem appropriate.”
Maurice indicated he will support his son as inquiries are underway.
“As a father, my priority has always been my children. In this storm, my mother reminded me that sometimes as parents we act with the best intentions, but sometimes we are challenged. All parents face times of family uncertainty,” he said.
The veteran restaurateur signed off by reiterating his commitment to “the industry I love” as well as business partners, investors, stakeholders, and team members.
“And my love and good intentions for my family and faith is unwavering,” he wrote.
Per the Sydney Morning Herald, the 60-year-old told investors this past week he was aware of only one allegation against his 32-year-old son, which was a sexual touching without consent charge that was dismissed in 2021.
Prior to this, the publication reported two women alleged they were attacked by Sylvester while sleeping and another person claimed they were sexually assaulted in a Sydney nightclub bathroom. The startling claims also included accusations of violent rages, alleging Sylvester pulled a knife out in front of colleagues at Icebergs Dining Room and Restaurant Hubert.
None of the alleged sexual attacks are understood to have taken place inside Maurice’s venues, although several of the alleged victims claim they first met Sylvester at one of the restaurants or connected businesses.
Lead image: Getty / Google Maps
Help is available.
- If you require immediate assistance, please call 000.
- If you’d like to speak to someone about sexual violence, please call the 1800 Respect hotline on 1800 737 732 or chat online.
- Under 25? You can reach Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or chat online.
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