Last night we said goodbye to Alvin, our first exit for finals week, who cheerfully thanked Adriano Zumbo for the “pain” after attempting his V8 cake. As the moment Australia’s second MasterChef will be crowned draws ever nearer, the contestants will have to draw on some serious inner strength to make it through finals week, which will see one contestant eliminated with every challenge.

Tonight the contestants will see what Jimmy has chosen as the mystery box ingredients, as the final five cook under the eagle eyes of guest judge, Shannon Bennett, chef and owner of Vue de Monde. After one of the contestants is eliminated, the final four for 2010 will be revealed.

Wednesday night will see Australia’s much-loved Maggie Beer return to the MasterChef kitchen. As guest judge, Maggie will rate the contestants’ cookbook ideas and taste dishes that would appear on its pages.

The three remaining contestants on Thursday night will face an incredibly daunting challenge as they cook a three course dinner for the Governor-General and guests. Friday night will see a very special Masterclass (watch out, George and Gary !) and on Sunday, the final two contestants will do battle to become Australia’s next MasterChef!

Don’t miss all the thrills of MasterChef finals week, every night at 7.30pm.