Pop the kettle on: Popular foodie raises cuppa as charity ambassador

It’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea time and well-known food personality and creative home-cook Georgia Barnes is urging Queenslanders to pop the kettle on and start baking to help create a cancer free future.

The MasterChef Australia alum who is a nutritionist has teamed up with Cancer Council Queensland to show her support as an official ambassador of the iconic campaign, sharing a mouth-watering recipe and her top entertaining tips.

In 2019, the official Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea date is Thursday, May 23, and over 4000 morning tea hosts from around Queensland will gather in living rooms, community centres, schools and workplaces throughout May and June to celebrate and raise funds for cancer research, prevention programs and support services.

Ms Barnes, who resides in the bayside Brisbane suburb of Wellington Point, said it was a privilege to be involved in the campaign and play a role in raising awareness.

“It’s such an important cause and what better way to raise much-needed funds than to enjoy one of the best parts of the day with friends, co-workers or the community,” she said.

“I’ve had many loved ones in my life experience the devastating reality that is cancer, having lost my grandfather, my grandmother, and a close friend to the disease; My Aunty is also a breast cancer survivor.

“Sadly, I think most people have similar stories, or worse, especially when you hear that one person is diagnosed every 20 minutes in Queensland.

“I can’t imagine where we’d be without the support and vision of Cancer Council Queensland, so I’m very happy to support this amazing cause, especially when it’s so simple to do!

“It’s in our culture – everyone loves a cuppa!”

Ms Barnes definitely loves a cuppa, saying while it’s hard for her to pick a favourite type of tea, when it comes to morning tea time, she’ll be choosing an Earl Grey.

She urged Queenslanders to join her in showing their support for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea by hosting an event before the end of June.

“As anyone who knows me knows that I am a huge fan of morning tea – there are so many delicious possibilities,” she said.

“To host a morning tea, I’d recommend planning your menu in advance and think about portion sizes – individual serves are always a great idea.

“Make sure you have a varied selection of sweet, savoury, healthy and indulgent options. And, don’t forget to style it.

“You don’t need to go overboard or spend a lot of money to make a table look beautiful and inviting: Try dressing the table with a white table cloth or table runner, cut some fresh blooms from your garden and pop them into some glasses, dust off your tea set and arrange the food nicely on platters.

“Make it something special, it definitely adds to the fun and the atmosphere.”

Since Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea began in 1994, millions of Australians have come together over a cuppa and a bite to eat in support of those affected by cancer.

To host an event, or donate, visit biggestmorningtea.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85.

ENDS

Carrot Cake Goodie Balls

By Georgia Barnes for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

Makes 16 balls | Gluten free, dairy free and vegan

Ingredients

  • 2 carrots, grated
  • 1 cup sultanas
  • 1/2 cup coconut oil
  • 1 cup shredded coconut, extra for rolling
  • 1 ½ cups organic walnuts, chopped
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean extract
  • Pinch of salt

Method

  • Squeeze grated carrot through a muslin cloth or fine sieve to remove excess moisture.
  • Place all ingredients into a food processor. Pulse until well combined. Place mixture in the refrigerator to firm up slightly before rolling.
  • Roll mixture into tablespoon-sized balls. Coat evenly with additional coconut.

About Georgia Barnes:

Georgia Barnes is a home-cook, nutritionist and food creative. Determined to inspire everyday people to cook from scratch and to see the beauty in real food, she kickstarted her career in the food and entertainment industry after placing runner-up on MasterChef Australia in 2015. Known throughout the series for her creative-flair, delicious desserts and plating skills, Georgia’s warm and bubbly persona made her a household favourite.

Since her television debut, Georgia now runs her own business providing a mixed bag of culinary and creative services to like-minded brands and organisations. Whether she’s conducting hands-on cooking classes, presenting onstage or writing, styling and photographing customised recipes, Georgia is motivated to encourage everyday people to cook more!

For more information, or interviews, media can contact:

Lisa Maynard, Public Relations and Social Media Manager, Cancer Council Queensland
Ph: (07) 3634 5171 or 0488 015 702
E: lisamaynard@cancerqld.org.au

For more information on Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea or to register to host an event, members of the general public should call 1300 65 65 85.