Anyone who watched MasterChef would know that I am passionate about food. I love creating and I am determined to follow my dream to become a professional chef.

I’ve just completed work experience at Neil Perry’s Rockpool Bar & Grill and I am also working on a cookbook. It’s aimed at people like me who have left home and want to know about living well – not just surviving – on a budget. This is something I feel really strongly about and want to show people what they can do if they buy the right ingredients.

Before auditioning for MasterChef, I was studying nursing and public health in Brisbane. I know the importance of a healthy lifestyle and that’s why I’m participating in this year’s Cancer Council Walk to Work Day this Friday, September 16.

I’ve been doing plenty of walking myself, exploring my new home of Melbourne. I love wandering around all the beautiful gardens in Melbourne, the city, Southbank and East Melbourne. I know first-hand the myriad feel-good effects for the body and the mind from walking.

And it’s great that participants in this year’s Cancer Council Walk to Work Day also have the opportunity to raise funds for cancer research, support and services.

Research shows that about 30 per cent of cancers can be prevented through living a healthy lifestyle, which includes good nutrition and regular exercise, such as walking.

Melburnians who walk to work this Friday should head to City Square between 7am and 9am for the Walk to Work Day ‘‘recharge event’’. Participants will be rewarded for their efforts with free massages, health checks and gift bags. I encourage everyone to register now at walk.com.au