South Australia, 32, Graduate Law Clerk

An example of tenacity and perseverance in the MasterChef Australia kitchen, Eloise has finally made it into this year’s Top 24 after four previous unsuccessful attempts. Always looking to improve her cooking skills, Eloise has worked hard to earn her place this year and says this is her “now or never” moment.

Born in Adelaide, Eloise grew up in a close-knit family with her parents and younger brother Nathaniel, a barista. It is with Nathaniel she hopes to one day create her food dream, opening a lounge style dessert and whiskey bar together.

Inspired in the kitchen by Adam Liaw, Maggie Beer, Dan Mendelson and Jock Zonfrillo, Eloise says her biggest food idol is Heston Blumenthal. She says she admires his creative approach to cooking. Describing herself as just as inquisitive, Eloise is always on the hunt in the kitchen to discover why something works the way it does.

Closer to home, her greatest food hero is her Nonna. Eloise says food was a big part of growing up, hosting large seasonal family gatherings where together they made passata and cured meats.

Like many teenagers, Eloise rebelled against her mother’s suggestion to study law. Years later she realised that mum was right and last year she completed her law degree, an exciting moment after several years of juggling study and part-time work. She says law remains a distant second behind cooking, as she looks to pursue her ultimate love: food.

Described by friends as outgoing and vivacious, Eloise says she is one to watch, citing her headstrong and sometimes loud and stubborn nature. With her sights set on a future in food, this confident and competitive cook says is committed to achieving glory in the MasterChef Australia kitchen.