Episode 6 of MasterChef Australia Season 18 (aired Friday 24 April 2026) marked a major milestone — the first Pressure Test and the first eliminations of the season.
The bottom group from Episode 5’s Barramundi Invention Test returned to fight for survival in a brutal 90-minute challenge set by Jean-Christophe Novelli.
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Join NowThe dish: Jean-Christophe’s signature Twice-Cooked Duck with Cherry Jus and Duck Fat Chips. This technical French classic tested precise rendering, crisp skin, tender meat, balanced sauce, and perfect timing.
Pressure Test Highlights & Redemption Arcs
- Pat McGarry was the standout of the night. The calm council worker produced near-perfect duck with beautiful crisp skin and a silky cherry jus. Jean-Christophe was visibly impressed, calling it one of the strongest Pressure Test dishes he had seen early in a season.
- Grace King showed composure and technical growth with an elegant plate.
- Hannah Johnson delivered an emotional, flavour-packed version that resonated with the judges.
- Jackie Yu impressed with precise sauce work and plating.
However, not everyone could handle the pressure. Timing issues, uneven duck skin, and split sauces proved costly.
Who Was Eliminated in Episode 6?
- Bella Di Conza (20, VIC) — The youngest female contestant and agriculture student was eliminated. Despite her generational Italian baking passion, she struggled with the technical demands of the duck skin and timing.
- Jeff Lam (47, VIC) — The persistent Hong Kong-born print technician was also sent home. His multiple audition attempts and baking focus couldn’t save him from inconsistencies in the high-pressure French classic.
With these two eliminations, the competition is now down to the Top 22.
Performance Table: Episode 6 Pressure Test (Twice-Cooked Duck)
| Contestant | Age | State | Occupation | Performance Summary | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pat McGarry | 26 | NSW | Council Worker | Near-perfect execution, crisp skin & silky jus | Top of the test – Safe |
| Grace King | 23 | VIC | Retail Assistant | Strong technical recovery & elegant plating | Safe |
| Hannah Johnson | 37 | WA | Mum of four | Emotional, heartfelt flavours | Safe |
| Jackie Yu | 31 | NSW | Tech Recruiter | Precise sauce work | Safe |
| Dot McHugh | 31 | NSW | Graphic Designer | Creative plating but uneven duck | Safe (bottom of safe) |
| Annabel Lloyd | 30 | NSW | ICU Nurse | Good flavours but timing issues | Safe |
| Bella Di Conza | 20 | VIC | Agriculture Student | Inconsistent duck skin & timing | Eliminated |
| Jeff Lam | 47 | VIC | Print Technician | Sauce split & technical struggles | Eliminated |
What This Means for the Season
The first eliminations have raised the stakes dramatically. Pat McGarry has cemented himself as a serious dark horse contender, while heritage powerhouses like Olaolu Olorunnimbe, Lydia Kamperos, Aaron Kher, Emily Sue, and Petro Papathomas remain untouched and look extremely strong.
The remaining Top 22 now heads into the next phase with much higher pressure — every dish matters.
How to Watch Episode 6 & Catch Up
Stream Episode 6 and the full season so far for free on 10 Play. New episodes continue Sunday to Wednesday at 7:00 PM on Channel 10.
Who will you miss most from the first eliminations — young Bella or persistent Jeff? Did Pat’s masterclass performance make him your new favourite? Who do you think is the early frontrunner now that we’re down to Top 22?
Drop your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
Stay tuned for the next recap as MasterChef Australia 2026 continues to deliver intense drama, incredible food, and rising stakes.
