Flavour, Nutrition & Heart | A Fresh Chapter with Maggie Beer Program in Carinya’s Kitchen

Nadine - Cariya Kitchen Supervisor, Amanda - Maggie Beer Chef Trainer and Joel - Co CEO Corporate Services

At the heart of Carinya, just beyond the buzz of daily care is a place where something special is simmering, the kitchen.

Kitchen Supervisor Nadine remembers the moment it all started. With strengthened aged care standards on the horizon, she and her team knew it was time to rethink more than just compliance. They wanted to uplift every plate, every bite, and every mealtime experience for the people who call Carinya home.

So, they joined the Maggie Beer Foundation program in October 2024 — and it’s been a game-changer.

“We’ve learned so much,” Nadine reflects. “Especially about the role of protein in strength and falls prevention. It’s changed the way we look at food for older people.”

But this wasn’t a total kitchen overhaul. As Nadine explains, Carinya was already doing a lot right. The Maggie Beer program offered those little touches, the small tweaks that have a big impact.

One of those changes came in a glass: smoothies. For residents who had been relying on supplements, the team introduced blended, protein-rich smoothies packed with goodness and flavour.

“We’re seeing improvements in weight and health, and the residents actually enjoy them! It’s a win-win,” Nadine smiles.

Then came the introduction of choice at mealtimes. Residents now pick between two options for lunch and dinner and that simple act of decision-making has brought joy and dignity to the dining room.

“They love it. They’ll talk about what they’re choosing and what they’re looking forward to. It makes a difference.”

Inspired by Maggie Beer’s philosophy, the kitchen is also getting creative. One of the new favourites? A slow-cooked lamb shoulder with balsamic vinegar, left to cook overnight until tender and full of flavour. It’s the kind of meal that wouldn’t be out of place in a restaurant and that’s exactly the point.

When the program chef trainer Rachel visited for an intensive week, she brought encouragement, advice, and fresh eyes.

“Rachel was fantastic. Supportive, helpful the little changes she suggested really made a difference,” says Nadine.

Carinya’s journey with the Maggie Beer Foundation hasn’t just changed the way they cook it’s strengthened the team’s purpose. And they’re not doing it alone. Amanda, another passionate chef trainer with Maggie Beer, is helping keep the momentum going. And Joel, Carinya’s Co-CEO of Corporate Services, is right there beside them, championing innovation and quality at every turn.

We asked Nadine if Maggie Beer herself stepped into the Carinya kitchen

“We’d proudly show her everything because we’ve taken her vision to heart,” says Nadine. “We’ve made the changes. Our food has more flavour, more nutrition, and just as much love.”

This isn’t just about meals it’s about respect, dignity, and making sure every resident knows they matter, right down to what’s on their plate.

Joel - Co CEO of Corporate Sercives, trying out his kitchen skills by making a cheesecake