Summary
North Rockhampton Nursing Centre has completed a year-long program gaining support from Maggie Beer’s Big Mission to transform the meals and dining experience of residents.
The centre’s cooks have spent the past year being mentored and trained by Chef Trainer Ryan Bonds from the Maggie Beer Foundation and last week were presented with certificates after “graduating” from the program.
The centre was one of just 120 aged-care facilities across Australia chosen last year to take part in the groundbreaking initiative.
Director of Nursing Helen Burgess said residents loved having a fresher menu and a more inviting dining experience thanks to several face-to-face sessions with chef Ryan, and access to phone and online support.
“Our cooks have learnt to introduce more fresh cooking. They now use fresh vegetables and make their own stocks and soups from scratch,” she said.
“They have improved the general presentation of foods and now offer more variety for morning and afternoon teas.”
Ms Burgess said the program highlighted the centre’s commitment to meeting Australian Government’s Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s new Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards around food, nutrition and dining.
“Now that we’ve completed the 12-month program we won’t be resting on our laurels,” she said. “We plan to continue to improve and ensure our residents have a say on their food and dining experience through forums and groups.
“We have wonderful cooks who love to ensure our residents are well fed and nourished, and they love it when they see the smiles on residents’ faces after a tasty meal.”
Chef Ryan finds it rewarding to support cooks from residential aged-care homes across the country to build layers of flavour with tried-and-tested foundational recipes, ensuring meals are not just delicious, but suitable for the needs of aged-care residents.