The Maggie Beer Foundation has announced the appointment of Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, as its inaugural Patron, marking a significant endorsement of the Foundation’s mission to enhance the health and well-being of older Australians through nutritious food.

Founded in 2014 by renowned chef Maggie Beer AO, the Foundation advocates for high-quality, seasonal food for older people, particularly in aged care settings, and works to combat malnutrition in the elderly population. “We are incredibly honoured to have the Governor-General as patron of the Foundation,” said Maggie Beer Foundation CEO Jane Mussared. “Her patronage is a wonderful expression of her role as Governor General in encouraging and recognising the efforts of individuals and groups who work every day to improve life in the nation and community.”

The Governor-General’s support aligns closely with her recent remarks in Parliament, where she described care as “the gentle thought and the outstretched hand that Australians have always been ready to share when great challenges present themselves,” underlining the importance of care as a core Australian value. “This is the essence of the Maggie Beer Foundation,” said Mussared, reflecting on the Governor-General’s words.

With a focus on improving food quality and the dining experience in aged care homes, the Foundation has become a leader in education and advocacy within the aged care sector. Over the past decade, it has developed extensive resources, including online education modules, training programs and support for chefs and cooks in aged care facilities.

Governor-General Mostyn expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “I am delighted to serve as Patron of the Maggie Beer Foundation and look forward to supporting their work in the community. Under Maggie’s leadership, the team are an example of people who have seen an area of need and are committing their care, expertise, and passion to making a difference.”

The Maggie Beer Foundation continues to work alongside a dedicated volunteer board, driven by a belief that healthy, beautifully prepared food is essential to the quality of life for older Australians, both in residential care and within the community.

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