Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, has been announced as the inaugural Patron of the Maggie Beer Foundation. This appointment marks a new chapter for the foundation, which has been working to improve the quality of food and nutrition for older Australians since 2014.
The Maggie Beer Foundation, established by renowned Australian cook Maggie Beer AO, has been active in advocating for better food experiences in aged care facilities. Over the past decade, the foundation has focused on educating cooks and chefs in the aged care sector, facilitating research, and contributing to policy development aimed at enhancing the well-being of older Australians through nutritious and enjoyable meals.
The Governor-General’s decision to support the foundation aligns with her recent emphasis on the importance of care in Australian society. In her swearing-in speech to the Australian Parliament on July 1, 2024, Ms Mostyn highlighted care as a fundamental aspect of the Australian identity, describing it as “the gentle thought and the outstretched hand that Australians have always been ready to share when great challenges present themselves”.
This patronage is expected to bring increased attention to the foundation’s initiatives, which include online education modules, training hubs, and hands-on Trainer Mentor Chef Programs.