Monday, April 20, 2026 — Episode 2 of MasterChef Australia Season 18 delivered high drama and impressive dishes as ten more home cooks secured their white aprons.
The new apron audition format continued on Channel 10, with judges Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin, and Jean-Christophe Novelli awarding aprons on the spot. By the end of the night, ten contestants had officially earned their place in the competition.
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Join NowWhite Aprons Awarded in Episode 2
Here are the ten home cooks who received white aprons during tonight’s episode (in the order they were awarded):
- Pat – Earned the first apron of the night with his dream dish.
- Vinnie – Impressed judges with a risk-taking sandwich (sanga) even before the official selection round.
- Hannah – Presented “Octopus’ Garden” – a standout charred octopus dish.
- Emily – Wowed the judges with a delicate herbal wonton soup.
- Min – Delivered a delectable salted egg and prawn pastry.
- Bella – Secured her apron after a strong performance in the cook challenge.
- Belinda – Had an emotional win with her dish.
- Casper – Earned an apron after the full selection round.
- Meg – Received her white apron alongside Casper in a double celebration.
- Dot – Awarded the final white apron of the night in an emotional close to Episode 2.
Key Highlights from Episode 2
- The judges praised the high standard of cooking and the diversity of dishes on show.
- Emotional moments were plentiful, with several contestants visibly moved after earning their aprons.
- Vinnie’s bold sandwich and Min’s salted egg prawn pastry were among the standout creations.
- Emily’s herbal wonton soup was described as beautiful and delicate.
- Hannah’s charred octopus dish continued the strong seafood theme started by Lydia Kamperos in Episode 1.
Current Apron Count
With Episode 2 complete, a significant portion of the 24 white aprons have now been awarded. The remaining hopefuls who didn’t receive an apron tonight still have chances in upcoming episodes this week.
What’s Next on MasterChef Australia 2026
The apron audition phase continues over the next few nights (Sunday to Wednesday) until all 24 spots are filled. Once the Top 24 is confirmed, the main competition begins with classic challenges including the Mystery Box, Pressure Tests, Invention Test, and Team Challenges.
A star-studded guest judge lineup is also on the way, including Meghan Markle, Robert Irwin, Jimmy & Jane Barnes, Maggie Beer, Curtis Stone, and more.
