In a shift from previous years, only one immunity pin was available at the start, won by Nat Thaipun in the premiere.
All the tension and drama of the season culminated in a spectacular two-part grand finale broadcast on July 16, 2024. The final battle was between Nat Thaipun, the creative barista, and Josh "Pezza" Perry, the beloved butcher. masterchef australia season 16
However, the looming question is how the show will handle the legacy of Jock Zonfrillo. Season 15 handled his tragic passing with immense grace, devoting the season to his memory. For , the show is rumored to be moving into a "celebration of evolution" phase. Instead of replacing Jock, sources hint that the series might introduce a rotating "Guest Mentor" chair—featuring former winners like Julie Goodwin, Emelia Jackson, or even Billie McKay—who will sit alongside Andy and Mel for specific challenges. This would keep the energy fresh while honoring the show’s history. In a shift from previous years, only one
The new four-person lineup shifted the dynamic toward hands-on mentorship and technical expertise: Andy Allen However, the looming question is how the show
In a nail-biting grand finale, Nat defeated Tasmanian butcher with a final score of 71 to 68. Her victory earned her: $250,000 in prize money.
In a press interview, Jean-Christophe Novelli spoke about the honor of joining the show during its time of transition, stating, "I don't think I'm the only one who would have jumped at the chance. The show has such a legacy, and it's such a massive privilege to be asked."
For the first time, six of the 24 contestants are people who failed in the audition round of previous seasons (not the competition, the actual audition). We will see a butcher from Brisbane who was rejected in Season 13, a pastry chef from Melbourne who choked during the Season 15 audition line-cook challenge, and a grandmother from Perth who was cut due to time constraints despite perfect flavor.