Icebergs owner breaks his silence after his son is hit with sexual misconduct allegations by nine women

One of Australia’s best known restaurateurs has spoken out for the first time after untested allegations were made against his son.

Maurice Terzini, who founded the internationally renowned Bondi Icebergs restaurant in Sydney in 2002, said he will stand by his son Sylvester, 32.

His statement on Instagram followed reports in the Sydney Morning Herald claiming Slyvester engaged in sexual misconduct over several years, which Sylvester has vigorously denied.

‘Allegations that have been made about one of my family members are devastating claims that have no place in our venues, industry or society,’ Mr Terzini, 60, said.

‘There are private health matters concerning one of my family members, where professional counsel has been sought.’

Maurice Terzini, who is not accused of any wrongdoing, will support his son while an internal investigation is carried out.

‘As a father, my priority has always been my children,’ he said.

‘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.’

According to the reports, at least nine women have made claims of sexual misconduct against Sylvester Terzini, who has denied the allegations.

His father said that given his profile in the hospitality industry, he had become collateral damage.

‘The allegations are not ones against me directly yet the inferences have been hurtful and damaging to my reputation,’ Maurice Terzini said.

‘The spotlight on me, and that which comes from running one of the most recognised restaurants in the world, carries with it an obligation to ensure that I communicate truthfully with my much-loved industry and the community.’

Mr Terzini also denied claims made in the Sydney Morning Herald that he knew about the complaints made against his son, who has worked in several of his restaurants.

‘On a personal level, as a father and an employer, I have for decades done my best to provide genuine care and opportunities to all of those around me and within my businesses,’ he said.

‘There have been false references and damaging questions raised publicly about me.

‘For those who know me, they know that under no circumstance would I ever intentionally ignore violent behaviour or cover up issues within any of my businesses.’

Mr Terzini said the restaurant industry he had been a part of for more than four decades still supported him.

‘It is with genuine gratitude that I extend my thanks to all of those in the industry and beyond who have reached out to me over the past week which has been a particularly devastating time for me, my family and for those closest to me,’ he said.