TV show contestants aim to cook up tourists

PARTICIPANTS in Network Ten’s cooking show MasterChef Australia were at Black Cat Truffles located north of Ballarat recently.

The visit was part of an initiative led by Visit Victoria where two episodes of the show were filmed in the Goldfields region.

The aim of the visit is to help showcase local produce, experiences, and scenery that could help drive more tourists to the region.

“One of the best parts of working on MasterChef Australia is getting to experience new places, and new food,” said host and mentor Andy Allen.

“Since I moved down to Melbourne, I actually haven’t spent a lot of time really getting to explore Ballarat, but coming here with the show is a great way to get the introduction of a lifetime this week.”

Black Cat Truffles is located 20 minutes from Ballarat at Wattle Flat and contestants were tasked with cooking on site and using ingredients made by local producers.

“As one of Australia’s most iconic television shows, MasterChef will promote Ballarat’s contemporary culinary scene inspired by the region’s excellent producers,” said State Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos.

“We’re showcasing this vibrant city to millions of local, interstate and global audiences through MasterChef Australia, boosting jobs, visitation and businesses in Ballarat.”

The two episodes will air on season 16 of MasterChef Australia, led by host and mentor Allen along with three new judges Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli.