Yes, chef! The tasty benefits of Maggie Beer Foundation training

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Eating well is important at every age. For older residents living at our aged care facilities, delicious and nutritious chef-made meals provide a sense of enjoyment and plenty of health benefits too. 

Chefs at our specialist aged care facilities are currently participating in a one-year program with the Maggie Beer Foundation to enhance the way we provide quality food and meals to our residents. As part of the mentorship program, our chefs will participate in chef training and develop new menus approved by dietitians and speech pathologists to ensure the food is both nutritious and enjoyable for residents. 

Cooking up a storm at Charles Chambers Court

Charles Chambers Court was the first of our facilities to take part in a five-day intensive program with Chef Amanda from the Maggie Beer Foundation. The program works not only with the kitchen staff but with the leisure and lifestyle teams to discuss how residents feel about the current food options on site.

Our residents enjoyed sampling a new menu with choices such as potato croquettes with parmesan and lemon zest and slow cooked lamb shoulder. The dessert options included a peach melba and a blueberry mousse. The week wrapped up with a buffet style lunch for International Pasta Day which was held in the courtyard with new linen and centrepieces.

Stephen Brooker, General Manager Aged Care, said the training and mentorship the chefs received from the Foundation would help to improve residents’ quality of life.

“Participating in the Maggie Beer Foundation training is one more way that Mission Australia is supporting our aged care residents, and we’re excited to see the long-term impact of this program on their health and wellbeing.

“The program also allows residents to participate directly by sharing their thoughts on the current food options and providing feedback on potential new menu items. There is ongoing consultation and engagement to bring the residents along on this journey.”

Our aged care chefs are passionate about their jobs and with this training they will be able to level up their skills and provide high quality, flavour-filled meals that also satisfy our residents’ nutritional needs.

Mission Australia's aged care facilities

Our specialist aged care facilities provide support to older people who are vulnerable to or at risk of homelessness. Charles Chambers Court and Annie Green Court in Sydney’s inner city and Benjamin Short Grove in Orange in regional NSW are home to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. With a safe and secure roof over their heads, residents can age with dignity and the support they need. 

Learn more about life at Annie Green Court, one of three Mission Australia Aged Care Centres.