Photo credit: Jamie Oliver Productions, Cian Wilkins
Jamie Oliver has officially announced the launch of the Australian Food Hero Awards. This is an initiative supported by a diverse panel of celebrity judges, Dannii Minogue, Jessica Rowe, Andy Allen and many more. The awards are designed to celebrate the unsung heroes of the Australian food system, including individuals, community groups, and educational institutions that contribute to nourishing Australian children.
The awards, in partnership with Royal Caribbean International and Wonde, recognise various stakeholders in the food community who inspire and promote healthy eating among children.
A prestigious panel, consisting of 12 expert judges including Healthy Harold from Life Ed, Australia’s primary provider of preventative health education in schools, will shortlist the nominations. The final decision on the winners will be made by Jamie and his team of celebrity judges, which also features personalities like John and Anthony from The Wiggles, Boo Seeka, Julia Busuttil Nishimura, and Mr Luke, among others.
Five distinct award categories are outlined for the competition. These include Food Educator of the Year, awarded to exceptional teachers; Food Kindness Awards for those promoting healthy eating and nutrition through supportive activities; Food for Movement, recognising the link between a good diet and physical activity; Community or School Food Champion, highlighting outstanding contributions to school or local community food initiatives; and Food Entrepreneur of the Year, for small businesses and entrepreneurs whose work supports sustainability and healthy eating for children.
Jamie spoke about his admiration for the ongoing efforts across Australia’s food system, saying, “I’ve seen brilliant work happening in the Australian food system, from farm to fork, that deserves to be celebrated. There are many unsung heroes – educators, caterers, cooks – who are providing deliciously nutritious food for our kids and inspiring them to lead happy, healthy lives through the joy of food.”
The awards ceremony is set to take place on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class ship, Ovation of the Seas, in Sydney on November 13th. Kathryn Lock, Senior Marketing Director at Royal Caribbean ANZ, commented on the partnership, saying “We are delighted to be the principal partner for the inaugural Jamie Oliver Food Hero Awards in Australia. Royal Caribbean enjoys a long-standing partnership with Jamie Oliver, offering our guests the best quality, fresh food alongside treasured family moments around the dining table on our Quantum class ships.”
Peter Dabrowa, CEO and Co-Founder of Wonde, also shared his thoughts on supporting the initiative. “We are thrilled to support The Jamie Oliver Food Heroes Awards 2024, honouring the dedicated individuals and groups driving positive transformation in the Australian food system.”
The collaboration with Wonde involves harnessing technology to provide communities with the necessary knowledge and resources for healthier lifestyle choices. This partnership “takes immense pride” in its ability to make a positive impact.
Nominations for the awards can be submitted at www.jamieoliver.com/foodheroawards.