Queensland Tik Tok Influencer @monmackfood

Not to be underestimated in this year’s top 24, this season’s youngest competitor is keen to impress and prove age is no barrier in taking out the coveted trophy.

Montana Hughes nearly made it onto MasterChef Australia in 2019, but after cooking for the judges at Judges Auditions, narrowly missed out on a spot in the top 24. But she now admits the years of experience and knowledge she’s gained since then put her in prime condition for a run at Finals Week.

The youngest of two girls, Montana was born and raised in Brisbane and spent much of her childhood at the beach. A lover of the outdoors and sunny Queensland lifestyle, she relishes a long run, going to the gym and spending time with friends and family.

Fondly recalling making pikelets alongside her grandma and scrambled eggs as a child with her Mum, Montana’s life now revolves around cooking and preparing meals for her family and friends. She was always tasked with baking treats for school sports games, and as a teenager quickly took over the role of making nightly dinners for her family.

With a cookbook collection that outweighs her, and a love of cooking shows, Montana credits Rick Stein, Yotam Ottolenghi and Heston Blumenthal as those who spark her love of food.

As someone who was only 12 years of age when Favourite Julie Goodwin took out the inaugural MasterChef Australia title, Montana is keen to show she’s ready to take her place at the top of the competition.