Rick Stein has issued a heartfelt statement as his fans show the celebrity chef support.
The 79-year-old cook was born in Churchill, Chipping Norton and spent his early years growing up on a farm in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds.
Since leaving Oxfordshire, his business empire has ballooned. Four have opened in Cornwall, there's a restaurant in 'millionaire's row' at Sandbanks in Dorset, and there are other restaurants across the south.
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And so has his TV career; launching many cooking shows combined with travel, taking him across the globe from India to Thailand and Sweden to Amsterdam.
His latest series is Rick Stein's Australia, a six-part BBC series exploring the country's evolving food culture, from Sydney's vibrant scene to the Outback.
On his Instagram, the chef thanked fans for the positive reaction to the new show.
He said: "I do feel a little bit privileged here in the south coast of New South Wales on this glorious summer's day and i know it's a little bit cold and inhospitable back home.
"But I would like to just thank everybody for all their great messages about my new series Rick Stein's Australia.
"It's so heartening to know how well its going down.
"And it was always the intention I have to say to start the series in the middle of winter and make everybody want to come to Australia."
One fan said: "Absolutely loved the first episode, I’m 60 this year and it’s been my dream to visit that incredible country.
"Unfortunately for me it’s rather unlikely that dream will come true, but it’s a joy to see Australia through your eyes."
Another added: "Loved the Central Coast episode. My favourite part of Australia."
While a third added: "Love you Rick. I have walked in your footsteps particularly through Asia and am always inspired by your passion and commitment to food and eating well.
"All the best with your Australian ventures."
