20 August 2010
Adelaide celebrities will don aprons and step up to the stove for a Rundle Mall cook-off to celebrate National Meals on Wheels Day next week.
Personalities from the ABC, Seven, Nine and Ten will be involved in the celebration under the canopy in Rundle Mall between noon and 1pm on Wednesday, August 25.
Seven reporter and weather presenter Melody Horrill and Nine’s weekend weather presenter Xavier Minniecon will be paired with Meals on Wheels volunteer cooks, and will have one hour to prepare meals for judging by celebrity chefs.
Under pressure, and using Meals on Wheels recipes and fresh ingredients, they will each prepare a main course and dessert.
Their efforts will be judged by Zucca Greek Mezze Restaurant’s Adam Swanson, Botanic Garden Restaurant’s Christopher Horner and the Adelaide Convention Centre’s executive chef Tze Khaw.
Meanwhile, ABC Radio’s evening host Peter Goers and Ten weather presenter and reporter Jane Reilly will MC the event.
National Meals on Wheels Day is held in August each year and is the organisation’s way of recognising and thanking the thousands of volunteers who prepare and deliver the meals.
In South Australia there are about 10,000 volunteers, 100 Meals on Wheels branches and an average of 5000 clients each weekday.
Meals on Wheels Chief Executive Sharyn Broer said the tireless work of volunteers meant thousands of elderly, frail aged and disabled people – and their carers - could remain independent in their homes.
“Many people are unable to shop or cook for themselves but are otherwise able to remain at home,” Ms Broer said.
“In some cases the need can be short-term, such as during a recovery from surgery.
“Thanks to our volunteers, who donate about 750,000 hours of their time each year, these people can receive a hot, nutritious meal and regular, friendly contact.
“Good nutrition is vital to continued good health, especially as people get older. Inadequate nutrition can result in people falling sick more easily, having less energy and poor bone density, and it might also contribute to a worsening of existing health conditions.”
Meals on Wheels was founded in South Australia by Doris Taylor in 1953. Since then more than 43 million meals have been delivered across the state, and the organisation has spread to other states and countries.
It is always looking for more volunteers. People can give as little as two hours a fortnight in either a kitchen or delivery team.
What: Meals On Wheels Cook-Off
Where: Under The Canopy In Rundle Mall
When: Noon To 1pm. Wednesday, August 25
Issued By Hughes Public Relations: Please contact Melissa King on (08) 8412 4103
