MOVE over MasterChef, more than 200 Mackay high school students are preparing to whip up a storm at the tomorrow’s final of the Young Chef’s Competition.

Having already impressed the judges at their school heat, the budding young cooks will now put their best skills forward to claim first prize.

The director of Mackay Rotary Club’s International and Youth Services, Stephen Wallace, said he’s impressed with the number of contenders.

“Of the 20 high schools we approached, 10 of them are competing from around the region, including Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville,” he said.

Mr Wallace said the students would compete in the Mackay TAFE kitchen and would be judged on their preparation, presentation and teamwork skills.

“Judging this year’s competition is the Mackay TAFE chef Glen Davis and the guest chef is Adrian Connors from Burp restaurant,” he said.

Mr Wallace said the competition allows students to achieve personally and professionally.

“It helps to raise awareness about careers in hospitality,” Mr Wallace said.

The junior and senior teams will have two hours to create a MasterChef quality meal, followed by judging and presentation of the winners.