Alana Lowes facts for kids

Alana Jane Lowes (born April 27, 1980) is an Australian writer, TV host, and actress. She became well-known after competing in MasterChef Australia in 2011. Alana finished in third place, showing off her amazing cooking skills.

About Alana Lowes

Early Life and Education

Alana Lowes was born in Melbourne, Australia. She grew up in Mildura before moving to Brisbane. Alana studied at the University of Canberra. She earned two degrees: one in journalism and one in law.

Journalism Career

Before her cooking fame, Alana worked as a journalist. In 2006, she was a reporter for WIN News in Canberra. Later, in 2008, she joined Nine News in Brisbane. She also wrote for Style magazine. Her articles covered food, travel, and interviews with famous people.

MasterChef Journey

Joining the Show

In 2011, Alana joined MasterChef Australia Season 3. She made it into the Top 24 contestants. She impressed the judges with a delicious chocolate pudding.

Meeting Food Stars

During her time on MasterChef, Alana met many famous chefs. These included Heston Blumenthal, Thomas Keller, and Nigella Lawson. Nigella Lawson was one of Alana's cooking heroes. The other contestants even nicknamed Alana "Nige" because they both loved chocolate and had similar dark hair.

Finishing Third

Alana made it all the way to third place in the competition. Judge Gary Mehigan praised her cooking. He said she was "one of the best cooks we've ever had." He also noted her careful approach and strong drive.

Alana's Work Today

TV Host and Writer

After MasterChef, Alana continued her career in food and travel. She hosts a TV show called A Taste of Travel on Channel Ten in Australia. Alana also writes regularly for ninemsn as a food columnist.

Online Presence and Events

You can find Alana's recipes and travel stories on her own website. She also has an online blog. Alana often gives cooking demonstrations and classes. She has entertained fans at events like MasterChef Live in Sydney. She hopes to create more books and TV shows in the future.

Other Interests

Acting

Besides cooking, Alana is also an actress. She has appeared in short films and full-length movies made in Australia. She has also been in various TV commercials. Some of her notable acting roles include The Ghosts and Blood Money.

Australian Rules Football

Alana is also a talented Australian rules football player. She won the Rising Star award in 2002. In 2003, she was named the Best-and-Fairest player. She was chosen for the all-Australian team four years in a row.

Helping Others

Alana uses her fame to help important causes. She is a national ambassador for the Cancer Council Australia. She helps raise awareness about women's cancers. She is also an ambassador for the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society of Queensland.