Courtney Roulston – Australian Chef and Television Presenter

Courtney Roulston is an Australian chef, television presenter, cookbook author and food personality, best known for her appearance on MasterChef Australia and her work hosting Network Ten’s popular cooking program Farm to Fork. Recognised for her passion for fresh produce, healthy cooking and simple yet delicious recipes, Courtney has established herself as a familiar face in Australian food and lifestyle television.

Since first appearing on MasterChef Australia in 2010, Courtney has developed an impressive career spanning professional kitchens, television, catering, publishing and food ambassadorships. Her approachable personality and enthusiasm for Australian produce have made her a popular figure with home cooks and food lovers across the country.

Early Life and Passion for Cooking

Growing up in Kellyville, New South Wales, Courtney was the youngest of six children in a large family. Her childhood was spent enjoying outdoor activities, fishing and cooking, with her early interest in food inspired by family meals and cookbooks by renowned Australian cook Margaret Fulton.

Courtney developed a love of cooking from a young age, experimenting with recipes and preparing meals for family and friends. Before pursuing a professional culinary career, she spent approximately 11 years working in a local bowling club, where she gained valuable hospitality experience.

Although cooking had always been her passion, it was not until 2010 that Courtney decided to take a major step towards turning that passion into a full-time career.

MasterChef Australia and National Recognition

Courtney’s big television breakthrough came in 2010 when she competed in the second series of MasterChef Australia. Her creativity, enthusiasm and ability to produce delicious food quickly made her a popular contestant.

Competing against some of Australia’s most talented amateur cooks, Courtney progressed to the final stages of the competition, finishing fifth in the series. The experience opened the door to numerous opportunities within the Australian food industry and helped establish her profile as an emerging culinary personality.

She later returned to the MasterChef kitchen in 2020 for the special All Stars: Back to Win season, competing alongside other memorable contestants from previous series.

Professional Chef and Sydney Swans Head Chef

Following her MasterChef success, Courtney established her own catering business in 2011, providing food for private functions, corporate events and major organisations.

One of her most significant professional achievements was becoming head chef for the Sydney Swans AFL team. For more than 11 seasons, she was responsible for preparing nutritious meals for the players and support staff, working closely with the club’s dietitian to develop menus that supported performance, recovery and general wellbeing.

Her experience in professional sports catering further strengthened her reputation for creating wholesome, balanced meals using fresh and quality ingredients.

Television Career and Farm to Fork

Courtney’s television career continued to flourish following MasterChef. She appeared in several Australian cooking programs, including The Cook’s Pantry, and became a regular contributor to food demonstrations and lifestyle television.

One of her most successful television roles has been as a presenter on Network Ten’s Farm to Fork. The popular cooking series celebrates Australian food producers, farmers and growers while encouraging viewers to make the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Travelling around Australia, Courtney meets farming families and discovers how different ingredients are produced, before demonstrating practical and delicious ways to use them in everyday cooking.

Her natural presenting style, culinary knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for Australian produce have made her an important part of the program’s success.

Cookbook Author and Food Ambassador

Alongside her television and catering work, Courtney has established herself as a successful cookbook author. Her publications include The Salad Kitchen and Salads in a Jar, which encourage readers to move beyond traditional salads and explore creative combinations of fresh ingredients, flavours and textures.

Courtney has also enjoyed a long-standing relationship with Coles Supermarkets as a brand ambassador, developing recipes, appearing in promotional campaigns and conducting cooking demonstrations throughout Australia.

Her work with the SecondBite charity organisation has also allowed her to support initiatives aimed at reducing food waste and helping provide meals to people experiencing food insecurity.

She regularly participates in food festivals, industry events and cooking demonstrations, sharing her knowledge and passion for fresh Australian produce with audiences around the country.

Sustainable Food and Seafood Advocacy

Courtney has maintained a strong interest in sustainable food practices and the importance of protecting Australia’s natural resources.

Growing up fishing with her family along the Shoalhaven River helped develop her lifelong appreciation of seafood and the ocean. She has since become an advocate for sustainable seafood choices, encouraging Australians to support responsible fishing practices and protect marine environments for future generations.

Her involvement in food education and sustainability reflects her broader commitment to making fresh, nutritious and responsibly sourced ingredients accessible to everyday Australians.

A Passionate Ambassador for Australian Food

Courtney Roulston has transformed her early passion for cooking into a successful career as one of Australia’s recognised television chefs and food personalities. From her memorable appearance on MasterChef Australia to her work with the Sydney Swans, cookbook publishing and presenting Farm to Fork, she has demonstrated considerable versatility within the Australian entertainment and food industries.

Her relaxed presenting style, practical cooking knowledge and enthusiasm for Australian farmers and producers continue to inspire home cooks across the country. Whether appearing on television, developing recipes or hosting live cooking events, Courtney remains a passionate advocate for fresh ingredients, healthy food and the enjoyment of cooking.