MasterChef goes cray-zy for the Bay

BY ALISON MARTIN

A VISIT from MasterChef was what Apollo Bay’s fishing and tourism industries needed, and locals hope the harbour town is still fresh on the minds of Melburnians as they plan their post-lockdown escape.

The Apollo Bay episode, filmed on a tranquil morning in March with a stunning harbour backdrop, screened on June 7 and could provide a great incentive for regional foodie tourism.

Apollo Bay Fishing Co-op commercial manager Alan Nicholls is confident of the popular reality cooking show’s longevity and promotion across social media, and he is looking forward to welcoming Melbourne visitors, who will be inspired to visit the ‘Bay and try a cray.

Apollo Bay’s local crayfish industry has experienced two major challenges over the past 18 months, and MasterChef’s promotion of the industry is a positive.

“Melbourne’s been in lockdown and they haven’t been able to travel, but I’m really happy that COVID numbers are being kept under control,” Mr Nicholls said.

“We need tourism, Apollo Bay in general needs tourism, the whole town needs it, and this filming came at a good time.”

He said the local rock lobster (crayfish) industry in particular had experienced two major challenges over the 18 months, and MasterChef’s promotion of the industry and preparation of crayfish was a positive.

Apollo Bay Fishing Co-operative director Russell Frost and MasterChef’s Jock Zonfrillo brought in the crayfish catch for filming at Apollo Bay.

The live export ban imposed on Australia by China and COVID’s impact on international travel had a huge impact on lobster sales, with China previously the predominant market for the crustacean delicacy.

“When prices dropped we sold more lobster than ever before; Victoria and Australia devoured a huge amount of crayfish,” Mr Nicholls said.

“Regionally they’re eating a huge amount and for me, the big standout with MasterChef was that the program showed people how to use the whole crayfish.

“Whether it’s lobster or anything caught in the net, if you’re going to kill something, get the most out of it – MasterChef did it incredibly well.”

Alan said visitors to Apollo Bay could also look forward to locally caught crayfish, along with some good catches of flathead, flounder and snapper at the moment and encouraged people to put the ‘Bay on their holiday destination list.