Barry O'Farrell must intervene to keep Masterchef in NSW
Posted: Thursday, 2 August 2012 | By: Linda Burney
Barry O'Farrell must intervene immediately to keep Masterchef in NSW following reports that Victoria is set to steal the popular $30 million production and its 360 jobs, Acting Opposition Leader Linda Burney said today.
"It will be an absolute travesty if Victoria steals Masterchef from right under Barry O'Farrell's nose," Ms Burney said.
"More than 7000 jobs have been lost in NSW since the Coalition came to power – and Barry O'Farrell cannot afford the supreme embarrassment of Masterchef walking away.
"Masterchef is not just a television show – it is a $30 million juggernaut operating out of Redfern that generates as many as 360 jobs in television production and flow-on industries.
"It's absolutely vital that we keep all that energy, creativity and talent in NSW.
"Masterchef is also a cultural phenomenon showcasing the very best of Sydney – our restaurants, our chefs, our stunning harbour backdrop – to millions of viewers around Australia and the world.
"The Australian-made version of Masterchef has been a huge hit in India, among other countries – and nobody wants all those tourists drawn to Melbourne instead.
"I am appalled – but not surprised – that the Victorian Government, Melbourne City Council and Tourism Victoria seem to have caught the O'Farrell Government on the hop.
"The Victorians have evidently been doing some serious legwork.
"Premier, bring in Tourism NSW, bring in Shine the production company – and do whatever it takes to ensure Masterchef never leaves NSW."
Tags: Barry O'Farrell, India, Linda Burney, Masterchef, Melbourne, NSW, Redfern, Victoria