'MasterChef Australia' latest news: Runner-up Matt Sinclair is named his town’s newest ambassador

“MasterChef Australia” 2016 contestant Matt Sinclair is kicking off 2017 on a high note. Apart from his promising food truck and catering business, the former coffee roaster has earned a new title: tourism ambassador.

The 27-year-old budding chef took to Instagram to announce his new partnership with Noosa Tourism. “Stoked to promote this beautiful place that we all know and love,” he wrote. “2017 is shaping up to be a cracker.” Matt hails from Noosa in Queensland, known for its laid-back vibe, pristine beaches and breathtaking views.

Matt, who landed in second place in the eighth season of “MasterChef Australia” after winner Elena Duggan, is considered to be an ideal tourism ambassador for his hometown. “As a Noosa local, Matt is not only passionate about cooking and using the fresh local produce that Noosa is known for, but he is also passionate about Noosa as a destination,” Tourism Noosa CEO Damien Massingham was quoted as saying by Noosa Today. “Matt is a friendly guy, who exudes a warm, friendly energy and will help amplify the message that Noosa is a welcoming and vibrant destination.”

According to the publication, Matt will represent Noosa at various events this year, as well as being featured as the town’s ambassador in media.

Matt is currently being kept busy with his food business, Ten Piece Cutlery. Back in December, he catered for his fellow contestant Miles Pritchett’s wedding. Miles shared an image of the reception and captioned it, “How blessed were we to have had @tenpiececutlery feed our lovely friends and family the most amazing meal at our wedding? Thank you with all our hearts @_matt_sinclair, Moe and your incredible team.” Miles’ wedding was attended by Elena and other “MasterChef Australia” 2016 contenders Jimmy Wong, Adam Mizzi, Olivia Robinson and Elise Franciskovic.

[READ: “'MasterChef Australia' latest news: Former contestants reunite for Miles Pritchett's wedding; Matt Sinclair provides catering services at the reception”]

Following his stint in “MasterChef Australia,” Matt opened Ten Piece Cutlery, alongside his business partner Moe Rickard, a fully qualified chef of 16 years who has worked with many different cuisines and has spent time cooking in Asia. Owning a food truck has always been Matt’s dream, and he experienced working on one while competing in “MasterChef Australia” 2016.

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