COMING runner-up in the last year's MasterChef has worked wonders for Laura Cassai's food career.

Since the conclusion of the show she has released her first cookbook, travelled with her cooking and held cooking classes.

Today she is in Mackay to inspire the next generation of budding chefs currently completing their relevant studies at CQUniversity.

Ms Cassai said she was looking forward to chatting with fellow foodies about her experiences in the hospitality industry.

"I was studying an education degree before I got into MasterChef, and I still love teaching people and inspiring people," she said.

"I'm really excited to meet all the CQUniversity students who are on their way to becoming chefs, and creating careers in hospitality."