The Q Train rolls into a big winter

THE Q Train is on track for a big winter – featuring on national cooking show MasterChef Australia next week and welcoming a new head chef.

The television show’s crew, including judges Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris and Matt Preston, filmed a challenge onboard the train in their current season, which will air on July 3.

Marketing co-ordinator Emma Atkinson said as such a young business, The Q Train was delighted to host MasterChef onboard.

“The benefits for the region once the show airs in early July will be largely beneficial to all business on The Bellarine and in Geelong,” Emma said. “We are looking forward to watching it, as filming sure was fun.”

After forced closure in June for track upgrades, The Q Train is also rolling into winter under the steerage of a new head chef – Nathan Darlington. Nathan brings with him a wealth of knowledge of the region, and the world.

He is a Michelin star trained chef who has worked under Chris Wheeler and Gordon Ramsey, and his philosophy is fresh food and fresh seasonal produce with a creative modern twist and balance of textures and flavours.

As a winner of the Lancashire Life Best Young Chef, and his 20 years’ experience in the industry internationally, Nathan is already a true asset to The Q Train team.

“What an opportunity and brilliant concept, I’m excited as I love a challenge,” Nathan said.

“Especially as I have never cooked on a train before (and this train moves), being on the other side of the world, cooking on a train with a stunning serenity, I’m both proud and humbled to be given this opportunity.”

Nathan is the newest recruit to The Q Train’s young and dynamic management team, along with chief executive officer Marie-Claire Trotter, train manager Daniel Trotter and sous chef Stephanie Lloyd – all under 35 years old.

Much more than just a restaurant, The Q Train is a purpose-built travelling restaurant that provides diners with a one-of-a kind dining experience, while preparing and serving up a delicious three-hour degustation which champions local Bellarine region produce.