HEYWOOD Rural Health was invited and has attended Admiralty House in Sydney to meet the Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Sam Mostyn AC and Maggie Beer AO, as part of a special event celebrating the progress of the Maggie Beer Foundation’s Trainer Mentor Program.
Heywood Rural Health Chief Executive Officer Leigh Parker and Head Chef Brad Forbes toured the historic kitchen on Tuesday, November 18, meeting the Admiralty House head chef and her team.
They were among other aged care professionals, chefs, and program mentors from across the country.
The initiative, designed as a 12-month program to enhance the quality of food, nutrition, and dining experiences in aged care homes, has been proudly implemented at Heywood Rural Health for more than 12 months.
The residential aged care facility’s food services team has embraced the opportunity to transform mealtimes for residents.
Through mentoring, tailored menu planning, and practical chef training, the program has empowered Heywood Rural Health to serve food that not only meets nutritional standards but enriches the lives of older people in their care.
Leigh Parker said the invitation recognises the dedication of Heywood Rural Health’s entire food services team. “Being part of this national initiative is an honour,” he said.
“It’s a testament to our staff’s dedication and to the belief that great food can truly enhance wellbeing and community in aged care.”
Heywood Rural Health’s involvement in the Trainer Mentor Program reflects its commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred aged care.
The organisation’s residential aged care service provides accommodation and support for up to 45 residents, with all meals freshly prepared onsite and guided by local dietitians.
Support Services Manager, Leigh Beddows said the program has empowered residents to speak up and shape their food choices.
“We’ve noticed residents are more mobile, more social, and more engaged in daily activities thanks to improved nutrition and mealtime experiences,” he said.
“Nutrition is almost as good as medication, if not better.”
Mr Forbes said the experience has reinforced the importance of compassion in aged care cooking. “It’s about more than food, it’s respect,” he said.
“These are mothers and fathers of families that we now care for, and what I am most proud of is the fact that I can reflect my appreciation through the meals we prepare.”
While at Admiralty House, Leigh and Brad toured the kitchen before joining the Governor-General and Maggie Beer AO for a chef panel discussion and afternoon tea prepared by the Maggie Beer Foundation team.
The menu featured nourishing refreshments such as a Lemon Myrtle Spritzer and Sticky Date Smoothie, alongside texture-modified canapés – a nod to the Foundation’s focus on flavour and dignity in aged care dining.
The visit marks national recognition for a small rural health service making a big impact on the lives of its residents.
“We may be a small organisation, but what happens here matters,” Leigh Parker said.
“Our team puts their heart into making every meal meaningful, and it’s rewarding to see that commitment recognised on a national level.”
Leigh Parker, CEO said, “it was a great event that Heywood Rural Health were privileged to be part of and were very proud of Brad’s involvement”.
Brad was also invited to arrive early to work alongside the Maggie Beer Team to prepare the sweets and savouries for the event which Brad stated was an amazing experience and something he will forever remember.
Photo includes Brad Forbes (HRH Chef), Maggie Beer (AO), Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Sam Mostyn AC and other reps from the Maggie Program and Aged Care facilities
