Fans of Matt Preston now have the chance to hang out with their favourite MasterChef judge, with the famed foodie announced as headlining the Parklands Food Fest. The celebrated food critic and cookbook author will be one of many attractions at the September 8 event in Western Sydney.

Taking place in Lizard Log Park in Abbotsbury, Parklands Food Fest will have much to reward dedicated foodies. The event will involve more than 50 food and drink stalls, alongside cooking, food preparation and gardening demonstrations. A brewers’ marquee, live entertainment and a dedicated

kids’ entertainment area will also help the day go with a swing. Preston fans will be treated to live cooking demonstrations with the MasterChef judge, where he will demonstrate recipes from his books and monthly delicious. magazine column.

“If you’re feeling hungry, this is the event for you, whether you’re after the latest in street food or timeless favourites,” says Western Sydney Parklands executive director Suellen Fitzgerald.

“I’m thrilled to announce that Matt Preston will headline Food Fest, because he’s done so much to celebrate the importance of food and home-cooking skills,” says NSW Minister for Environment and Heritage Gabrielle Upton.

Visitors to the event will also be able to experience the edible diversity of Western Sydney, embodied in this year’s theme of ‘homegrown’. “When it comes to Parklands Food Fest, ‘homegrown’ is not just a buzzword – it’s a celebration of the rich cultural and culinary diversity that makes its home in Western Sydney,” continues the minister. “It also highlights the excellent work of Western Sydney Parklands’ growing Urban Farms Precinct, which ensures healthy and sustainable food production in the heart of Sydney.”