The Great Australian Bake Off Season 7 returns with new bakers and judges. Watch on FOXTEL & BINGE from tonight – don’t miss the tribute to Cal Wilson.
The Great Australian Bake Off is set to return tonight, showcasing 12 new bakers who will step into the iconic Bake Off shed to compete under the watchful eyes of judges Rachel Khoo, a global culinary figure, and Australia’s celebrated pastry expert Darren Purchese. Comedians Natalie Tran and the late Cal Wilson take up hosting duties, with Wilson’s final appearance across four episodes marking a poignant moment for fans and cast alike.
Wendy Moore, Executive Director of Entertainment Content and Channels at FOXTEL, acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the show’s return.
“Season 7 of The Great Australian Bake Off holds a special place in all our hearts. Cal’s passing was a devastating shock to the Bake Off family, and she is dearly missed by everyone who knew her.
Her deep love for this show and her unique blend of charisma and kindness brightened the shed every day. With Cal in our hearts and the full support of her family, The Great Australian Bake Off will premiere on 18 September at 8.30pm on FOXTEL and BINGE.”
The sentiments were echoed by Kylie Washington, General Manager and Creative Director of BBC Studios Productions, who praised Wilson’s contribution to the show.
“Cal loved being part of the Bake Off family and everyone on the series loved Cal. She brought a beautiful energy to the show and we miss her enormously, and I’m pleased that audiences will get another chance to see the magic that she brought to the Bake Off shed.”
Over the course of 10 weeks, a diverse group of home bakers from around the country will face various baking challenges, testing their creativity and skill as they prepare cakes, desserts, biscuits, breads, and pastries, all in pursuit of the title of Australia’s best baker.
This year’s group of bakers is particularly eclectic, featuring talents like Adrian Barila, a 28-year-old theatre performer whose Italian roots inspire his culinary creations, and Jaden Briggs, a Gunai Kurnai and Yorta Yorta man who incorporates bush tucker into his bakes.
Other standout contestants include Laurina Bowlen, a 36-year-old designer of 1950s-style dresses, known for her striking fondant cake sculptures. The lineup also includes bakers from diverse cultural backgrounds, including the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe, all bringing their unique experiences to the competition.
Judge Rachel Khoo expressed her excitement for the upcoming season, noting the creativity and ingenuity on display.
“This season of The Great Australian Bake Off is an absolute treat for the senses. From inventive flavour combinations to breathtaking presentation, each episode is packed with surprises. I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic we’ve created in the Bake Off shed.”
Her co-judge, Darren Purchese, echoed this enthusiasm.
“I’m beyond excited for everyone to see our new season – the level of talent in the Bake Off shed is simply extraordinary. We have such a diverse group of bakers this year, each bringing their own unique flair and background to the table.
The challenges are tougher, the creations are more innovative, and the passion in that shed is truly inspiring. It’s going to be a thrilling ride for viewers from start to finish!”
The show’s host, Natalie Tran, highlighted the personal significance of the new season, which she views as a tribute to Wilson.
“This year, Bake Off holds a special place in our hearts and allows us to truly celebrate Cal. This season is a tribute to her memory, the incredible talent of our bakers, and the genuine camaraderie that makes the show so special.”
Originally launched in the UK in 2010 as The Great British Bake Off, the show has since become a global phenomenon, with local versions produced in more than a dozen countries, including the US, Sweden, Germany, and France. Australia’s first iteration of the series aired in 2013 on the Nine Network before moving to FOXTEL.
Season 7 promises to retain the same warmth, camaraderie, and humour that fans have come to love in previous instalments, along with baking tips viewers can take home.
