The former Wiley Park Girls High student and cooking guru, who turns 75 in January, has a list of achievements that run a mile long, from inspiring Aussies on The Great Australian Bake Off, to running her successful namesake shop and eatery in the Barossa Valley.
Of her latest win, Maggie said: “The utter shock, surprise and delight of the night was being awarded ‘Legend’ before 750 people who all stood clapping for so long before I could speak.
“I was beside myself with the warmth and energy everyone gave me. In fact, I have no idea at all of what I said given my excitement, but I will never ever forget this night; I felt so proud, humble and almost embarrassed in equal measures.
“Definitely one of the nights of my life to remember.”
Maggie’s current venture is putting all her time and energy into the Maggie Beer Foundation, educating and changing the food for those in aged care.
“It’s the biggest project and challenge I’ve taken on to date and this includes educating chefs and CEOs around Australia throughout the year with two solid days of sharing ideas; cooking together and hearing of all the good things, as well as the difficulties.
“It’s the most specialised form of cooking when you think about it, having to cook for those who have dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and can’t eat solid food. How to make food like that beautiful.
“It’s always about the participants, our great presenters and our small, but amazing team.”
If you would like to know more about the fantastic work of the foundation, visit maggiebeerfoundation.org.au.
Maggie’s now official ‘Legend’
AUSTRALIA’S queen of cookery who grew up in Lakemba, Maggie Beer, has picked up the prestigious Legend Award at the Good Food Guide Awards 2019 for her long-standing contribution to the nation’s culinary scene.
