In the city for the first time, MasterChef Australia’s Season Six contestants Emelia Jackson and Renae Smith were preparing to adapt some of their signature dishes to the Indian palette when we caught up with them at High Ultra Lounge, on everything from family life to future plans.
On India
Renae: When you land in India you feel the culture immediately. Though I got deported this time! I had the wrong visa, so they sent me back! I tried to throw the MasterChef thing in, but it didn’t help.
Emilia: I was extremely overwhelmed on my first visit. Everything is chaotic, and I got really easily frustrated! The second visit has been easier. We also didn’t know what to expect in terms of how popular we are here - people were screaming at us, and we’re taking thousands of photos a day!
On travel
Renae: I got married at 18 and had a child at 19 so haven’t travelled much. I won a competition a few years ago, and travelled to Japan. But I hated it! I thought it would be a moving, spiritual experience and instead it was like being in a gameshow. Some people love it, but it wasn’t for me.
Emilia: It’s something I love. I’ve spent five months in Europe, six months in America, and I’ve been to most of the Pacific islands.
On family
Renae: I have two daughters, and the eldest is 13. I don’t go away very often, so they’ve been texting me about little things all day, because they miss me!
Emilia: I’m the youngest of four siblings and my eldest brother just had a baby, Thomas, who is my life! He’s constantly happy. I also got to christen him last week - I’m the Godmother. I make baby food for him when he comes over.
On life lessons
Renae: If it doesn’t make you happy, don’t do it. I spent so many years doing stuff because I thought I should. But one day I just woke up and thought I’m not going to do it.
Emilia: I just like to live hard and travel often. Everything you do, do it to your best.
On future plans
Renae: I have a business that does marketing and PR. I also just joined University, studying psychological science, so I’ve got a good 10 years ahead of me before I get my doctorate.
Emilia: I’m planning to move to London in May. I’d love to do marketing or advertising for a food magazine, but it’s quite a selective job so we’ll see!