MACKAY is fast becoming a hotspot for reality TV talent.

And recent speculation indicates there will be a Mackay contestant on this year's series of MasterChef Australia.

Channel 10, the network that broadcasts the hit cooking show, declined to comment yesterday, but it's believed producers will be filming a segment in Mackay this weekend.

The TV show, famous for its heated kitchen meltdowns and high-pressure cookoffs, pits would-be chefs against each other as they compete for a lucrative top prize.

Former home cooks like Poh Ling Yeow and Julie Goodwin have forged new careers after appearing on the television program.

Mackay Tourism marketing officer Sarah Matheson said it was good news the spotlight would be on Mackay.

"The first step of marketing is raising awareness," she said, "and a show like MasterChef, it has a huge national audience."

It's believed the contestant will be filmed buying some fresh produce from a seafood shop this weekend.

TV talent

•  A Mackay contestant is tipped to be on this year's MasterChef Australia
•  Mackay father-daughter team Sam and Jess O'Malley battled it out on the Biggest Loser last season
•  Mackay North State High School student Aaliyah Warren made it through to the Sydney rounds on X-Factor
•  Mackay woman Kerrie Odger appeared on The Mole last year