Chef and television presenter Colin Fassnidge is set to appear in court after allegedly returning a positive roadside drug test for cocaine during a police operation in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

Police from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command stopped the 52-year-old on November 8 while conducting random drug and alcohol testing on Malabar Road, South Maroubra. Officers allege a roadside drug test produced a positive reading for cocaine, with a secondary test also returning a positive result.

Colin Fassnidge (image – Seven)

Fassnidge, who was driving a grey ute at the time, was charged with driving a vehicle, illicit drug present in blood. He is scheduled to face Waverley Local Court in January.

The Irish-born chef first gained prominence through his role on My Kitchen Rules, joining the program as a guest judge in 2012 before becoming a long-term member of the judging panel in Australia and New Zealand.

His television work has expanded over the years, including appearances on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2021, hosting duties on Kitchen Nightmares Australia in 2022, and presenting food segments on Better Homes & Gardens since 2024.

Fassnidge also co-hosts Off The Grid with Colin & Manu, with the program expected to return with new episodes in 2026.