MasterChef Australia is an Australian competitive cooking game show based on the original British show of the same name created by Franc Roddam, in which amateur chefs compete in weekly elimination challenges which test their food knowledge and preparation skills until a winner is crowned as the "MasterChef".
Entrants must be over 18 years old whose main source of income cannot come from preparing and cooking fresh food in a professional environment.
The battle is on to find the most promising, undiscovered culinary talent in the country, as ambitious kitchen enthusiasts take on demanding challenges in their bid to prove they have what it takes to become Australian MasterChef.
The competition starts with auditions, following which the top 50 travel to Sydney where they are put through their paces in a variety of challenges as they compete for a place in the final 24 (20 in the first season).
The final 24 must learn fast and up their game as they are challenged with cooking from a mystery box of ingredients, cooking the same menu as their competitors and hoping to come out top, and taking part in tasks that are completely outside of their comfort zone, including cooking for the army or catering for a wedding.
All the challenges require concentration, dedication and above all talent as one mistake could mean the end of their dream.
The winner plays for a prize that includes chef training from leading professional chefs, the chance to have their own cookbook published and A$100,000 in cash.
This is an emotional and exhausting journey, pushing the contestants to their absolute limits. Who will prove to the judges that they have what it takes?
The first season was hosted by Sarah Wilson, with judges Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris and Matt Preston. Wilson was dropped after one season, with the judges assuming hosting duties as well. Matt Moran was added as a host and recurring judge in Season 3, but left the show after Season 4.
Winners
Season 01: Julie Goodwin
Season 02: Adam Liaw
Season 03: Kate Bracks
Season 04: Andy Alle
Season 05: Emma Dean
Season 06: Brent Owens
Season 07: Billie McKay
Season 08: Elena Duggan
Season 09: Diana Chan
Season 10: Sashi Cheliah
Season 11: Larissa Takchi
Season 12: Emelia Jackson
Season 13: Justin Narayan
Season 14: Billie McKay
Broadcast Notes
MasterChef Australia premiered in South Africa on DStv's BBC Lifestyle channel on Monday 9 August, 2010. After the first season the show was moved to M-Net.