Brighton man wins ‘best job in the world’ in Australia

A 34-year-old man from Brighton has won one of the “best jobs in the world” in a global competition run by Tourism Australia.

Rich Keam was chosen from more than 330,000 applicants for one of seven six-month contracts.

He will be paid about £60,000 to be a “taste master”, travelling around Western Australia checking out the best food and drink and bars and restaurants that he can find.

Rich Keam

Other roles included outback adventurer, chief funster, lifestyle photographer and wildlife caretaker.

Mr Keam, a musician and costume designer, had to make a 30-second video explaining why he was suited to the job.

He was among 18 candidates to be shortlisted for six posts – a seventh role as high flyer has since been added – and spent two weeks in Australia undertaking various challenges.

Mr Keam is a former Imagination Institute host at Disneyland Paris and has “magician” on his CV.

He said: “It’s just my love of food and travel and adventure that really attracted me to the role.

“I love the UK. I love the UK’s food but Western Australia … the seafood is amazing, absolutely amazing.

“I ate a prawn the other day that was more like the size of half a chicken.”

He is expected to start work later this year.