Gary Mehigan

With his award-winning establishments, Fenix and Maribyrnong Boathouse, among some of the finest dining experiences in Melbourne, Gary Mehigan's credentials command attention.
Having received training in world class restaurants, including The Connaught and Le Souffle in London in his early years, Gary has been based in Melbourne since 1991. He has headed the kitchen in some of the city's most prominent restaurants, including Browns, Burnham Beeches Country House and Hotel Sofitel before opening the award-winning Fenix in 2000.
Gary Mehigan's wealth of experience and wisdom will be invaluable to the contestants, however his considered and thoughtful demeanour should not fool them into thinking he is a push-over - he is far from it.
"From the outset, I feel we have been looking for a gem of a cook, an amateur who thinks, talks and sleeps food. Someone, who for whatever reason, ended up doing something else but always wanted to be a chef. They must posess an innate sense of hospitality, a natural generosity and an empathy towards others. A self-starter with a clear idea of where they want to take this opportunity. A career in food will fulfil their dream. MasterChef Australia will give them that dream" - Gary Mehigan.