Tasmania’s Parliament has welcomed a delegation of people living with diabetes, raising awareness of life with the condition, highlighting the importance of preventing complications, and sharing their stories about the positive impact that diabetes technology has on their daily lives.  

Meeting with lawmakers from across the political spectrum, the ������-led event heard about the impact preventative telephone health coaching programs like The COACH Program have in the Tasmanian community.  

Attendees also heard about the national campaign for more equitable access to technology including continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and automatic insulin delivery (AID) systems. 

������ Group CEO Justine Cain thanked members of Parliament from all sides and all chambers for their interest and support of people living with diabetes in Tasmania.  

“No one chooses diabetes, and thanks to the support of the Tasmanian Parliament, we’re taking big steps to support people living with diabetes in Tasmania to live healthy and fulfilling lives,” she said.  

“Just last weekend, Deputy Premier Guy Barnett led the 19th Pollie Pedal charity bike ride through 300 kilometres of Tasmanian scenery to raise money to support people living with diabetes, cutting-edge research, and activities to help prevent and delay diabetes.  

“We’re grateful for the support of the Tasmanian Government, through prevention programs like The COACH Program, which help support people in many vulnerable and at-risk communities right across Tasmania. 

“A big thank you to every Council and Assembly member for your ongoing support of people living with diabetes in Tasmania.” 

Tasmanian Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Wellbeing, the Hon. Bridget Archer, welcomed the delegation to Parliament.  

“I thank ������ for its strong support of The Health Revolution, Tasmania’s 20-year preventive health strategy, and for its tireless work and ongoing partnership in improving diabetes outcomes for Tasmanians,” Minister Archer said. 

“Hearing first hand from people living with diabetes helps us to understand how we can ease the challenge of living with diabetes for people across the state.” 

������ State General Manager, Impact and Innovation (Tas) Minke Hoekstra said delivery of local prevention programs like The COACH Program were helping to prevent and delay diabetes and associated complications, like cardiovascular disease, by helping Tasmanians lead healthier lives.  

“More than 32,000 people live with diabetes across Tasmania, with another estimated 12,000 silently living with type 2 diabetes,” she said.  

“The COACH Program has seen positive outcomes over the last two years including improved glucose levels and increased physical activity.   

“These results show the importance of prevention programs that give people the tools and resources to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.  

“Thank you to all Assembly and Council members for your ongoing support of people living with diabetes in Tasmania – your support helps our community to thrive.” 

Around 50 people living with diabetes and their families and supporters gathered at Tasmania’s State Parliament on 18 March to discuss life with diabetes across all sides of Parliament. 

The starter’s gun has fired for a pollie-powered peloton as the 19th PolliePedal began its 300km ride with a visit to a Hobart primary school, before winding through some of Tasmania’s scenic routes and locations over the next three days.  

Riders called in to Margate Primary School on Hobart’s southern suburbs on the first leg of their ride to speak with students and raise awareness of life with diabetes. 

The riders are led by Tasmanian Deputy Premier Guy Barnett for the 19^th time and include riders living with diabetes and supporters of the diabetes community.   

Funds raised will go to cutting-edge research into diabetes prevention and the search for a cure; giving young people living with diabetes a sense of community through programs like DiaBuddies; as well as wider community programs that directly support people living with diabetes.    

������ Group CEO Justine Cain thanked Mr Barnett and all the riders for their ongoing support of the diabetes community.  

“PolliePedal Tasmania is more than a cycling event, it’s a statement of support for people living with diabetes, and we’ve seen incredible generosity from participants and sponsors over nearly two decades,” she said.   

“Every kilometre cycled, every dollar raised, and every story from people living with diabetes helps to reduce the impact on individuals, families, and communities.   

“������ is very proud to again partner with Deputy Premier Barnett, who brings his own powerful experience living with type 1 diabetes and continues to inspire new generations.  

“Thank you to the many individuals, sponsors, and supporters, who will make this year’s ride a success,” Ms Cain said. 

Since 2006, Pollie Pedal has raised more than $890,000 for vital diabetes research and community support programs, while covering more than 5,000 kilometres.   

Donations are open to support people living with diabetes while the peloton cycles through some of Tasmania’s most stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to coastal roads. To donate visit   

The scorecard from the 2025 Boxing Day Test health checks is in, with more than 7,400 Shane Warne Legacy Health Checks resulting in over one third of participants being encouraged to see their GP for a follow-up discussion.  

The off-field findings highlight the importance of preventative screening, as more than a quarter of those encouraged to see their GP were prompted because of type 2 diabetes risk.

������ Group CEO Justine Cain said identifying people at risk of type 2 diabetes early is critically important.

“The great thing about the SWL Health Checks is that they are free, quick and self-serve, and can help start a conversation with a health professional,” Ms Cain said.

“While not all diabetes can be prevented, we know that 58 percent of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented or delayed. For that to happen, we need to reach people who are at risk, and at this year’s Test we’ve done that for thousands of individuals.

“Shane was a beloved figure not just in Australian sports but as an iconic personality with a passion for community. ������ is proud to partner with SWL to encourage greater diabetes awareness and screening,” she said.

The Shane Warne Legacy CEO Helen Nolan said “we’re learning so much at the Legacy, but one lesson keeps coming back to me: our bodies talk to us. Through ways we can easily brush off as nothing.

“In early February 2022 Shane said to me, ‘For the first time in my life I feel exhausted. I need a proper break. Three months. Is there a way?’

“I had never heard him say that before. So, I cleared his schedule. Declined invitations. Moved commitments. Blocked out three full months. He was on Day 1 of that break.

“And contrary to what was reported, he wasn’t seeing a heart specialist or any doctor. He had no idea what was about to unfold.

“It’s such a simple lesson, but I think about it every day: when your body speaks, listen.

“That’s exactly why the Shane Warne Legacy exists. We’ve made it easy to check your health for free in just four minutes, no appointment needed. You can sit down at a self-serve machine and know your numbers. Why wouldn’t you?” Ms Nolan said.

Free Shane Warne Legacy (SWL) Health Checks were offered at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for two days during the Boxing Day Test, in partnership with the Legacy’s founding partner, Latrobe Health Services, and health partner ������.

During the Test, 56 SiSU Health Stations were available throughout the MCG, giving cricket fans easy access to quick, non-invasive health assessments. Each self-serve station measures blood pressure, body composition, heart rate, and BMI, with results delivered instantly on-screen and via the SiSU Health mobile app

Participants’ 5-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes was measured using the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk (AUDSRISK) tool, delivered via the Health Station.

A participant follow-up survey sent to all health check participants four weeks after testing sought to understand the impact of the health checks on participant lifestyle choices, basic health literacy, and GP outcomes.

Of the survey respondents, almost two-thirds (65%) had made or plan lifestyle changes within the 4 weeks, whilst over three-quarters (77%) were more confident understanding their heart health and diabetes risk.

Follow this link to read the .

Over 430,000 free Shane Warne Legacy health checks have been undertaken over the past two years. To find a Shane Warne Legacy Health Check near you, visit

Australians working across diabetes care, endocrinology, vascular medicine and First Nations health have been recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours. 

������ congratulates these award recipients who reflect the depth of expertise that is addressing diabetes as one of the most urgent and complex health challenges facing Australia. 

Among those recognised is Professor Shirley Jansen of Western Australia, appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her contribution to vascular surgery and cardiovascular science. Professor Jansen is Professor of Vascular Surgery and Director of the Heart and Vascular Research Institute at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital and co lead of Cardiovascular Science and Diabetes at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. Her work sits at the intersection of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and clinical research, strengthening understanding of complications that affect thousands of Australians each year. 

Queensland health leader Floyd Leedie has also been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to Indigenous health in Queensland. As CEO of Goondir Health Service since 2008, Mr Leedie has led the delivery of culturally safe primary health care across regional Queensland, supporting communities where diabetes prevalence and complications remain disproportionately high. ������ is proud to have been associated with this work at Goondir Health through its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement team. 

Dr Kunwarjit Singh Sangla of Queensland has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to endocrinology and to rural and Indigenous communities in Queensland. 

For more than 25 years, Dr Sangla has delivered specialist diabetes care through face to face outreach clinics across Central, West and North Queensland, complemented by telehealth and ongoing clinical support for patients and practitioners. His work has expanded access to specialist care in some of the most remote parts of the state. 

In New South Wales, Shirley Brown has been awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding public service to health in nursing and chronic care services. An Aboriginal Chronic Care nurse with Western Sydney Local Health District, Ms Brown works at the Mount Druitt Community Health Centre Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Monday Clinic, delivering culturally appropriate diabetes care and long term support. 

Together, these honours highlight the critical role of clinical leadership, research excellence and community-focused care in reducing the impact of diabetes and improving health outcomes across Australia.

������ today announced an important two-year partnership with Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) under its flagship charity program, SCA Embrace.

The collaboration will strengthen ������’s efforts to improve awareness, understanding and support for the two million Australians living with diabetes, as well as those at risk. It will also deliver significant in-kind advertising across SCA’s 104 radio stations and digital platforms, amplifying important information about diabetes.

One Australian is diagnosed with diabetes every five minutes, with more than 141,000 people living with type 1 diabetes, 1.3 million people living with type 2 diabetes, and a further 500,000 estimated to be living with undiagnosed diabetes.

The SCA Embrace partnership will help to increase community understanding of diabetes risk, symptoms and prevention where possible, and complications management where prevention is not possible, while also helping to address misinformation and stigma that continue to affect people living with the condition.

������ Group CEO Justine Cain said the partnership provided an important opportunity to reach Australians with trusted information.

“We are excited, proud and grateful for the opportunity that SCA’s Embrace partnership presents.

“Increasing access to accurate information about diabetes will have a positive impact across the community, and we’re excited to work with SCA to help drive greater understanding and support for Australians living with, and at risk of, diabetes,” Ms Cain said.

Over the past decade, SCA Embrace has delivered hundreds of millions of dollars in-kind advertising support to Australian charities since 2016, leveraging SCA’s national reach and expertise to drive awareness, education and meaningful social impact.

SCA’s Chief Operating Officer, Stephen Haddad, said SCA believes in the power of media to create meaningful impact.

“������ is delivering vital support to Australians at critical moments in their lives, and we’re proud to welcome them as our SCA Embrace charity partner for 2026-2027.

“Through SCA Embrace we’re able to amplify important conversations, increase awareness and help connect communities with the support they need,” he said.

Behind the diabetes statistics are individuals facing a heightened risk of serious complications, including heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss and amputations.

Diabetes already costs the Australian health system $9.1 billion each year, with rates rising among younger Australians. Over the past decade, diagnoses among people in their 20s and 30s have increased by 44 per cent.

The impact is particularly severe for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, who experience some of the highest recorded rates of type 2 diabetes in the world and are nearly five times more likely to be hospitalised with diabetes-related complications.

About ������

������ is the national peak body supporting people living with, and at risk of, diabetes. Working in collaboration with people with lived experience and the health sector, we are leading the national response to Australia’s largest health crisis. Our work focuses on supporting people with diabetes to live well, providing information, resources, and support services as well as investing in prevention, and reducing the impact of diabetes on people, health systems and society. We advocate for positive change that will create a healthier future for everyone.   

About SCA

Southern Cross Media Group (ASX:SXL) (Southern Cross) is one of Australia’s most prominent media companies, with a market-leading presence across broadcast television, audio, publishing and digital.

SCA’s audio assets including the LiSTNR digital app, offering free and compelling digital audio content including SCA’s FM, AM, and DAB+ radio stations, live AFL, NRL, and international cricket coverage, over 100 music playlists, local news and over 800 podcast titles from leading Australian and global creators. SCA has more than 2.5 million signed-in users on the LiSTNR app and with a total LiSTNR Audience Network that reaches an estimated 10 million* people each month.

SCA owns 104 radio stations across FM, AM, and DAB+ radio under the Triple M and Hit network brands and provides national sales representation for 56 regional radio stations, with more than 8.7 million listeners across the Hit and Triple M networks nationally.

������ is encouraging fans attending the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test to take a five-minute health check that could change their life.  

Free Shane Warne Legacy (SWL) Health Checks are being offered at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in partnership with the Legacy’s founding partner, Latrobe Health Services, and health partner ������, to support people to know their numbers and start a conversation about their health. 

������ Group CEO Justine Cain urged people attending the Test to take advantage of the opportunity to get on-the-spot results.  

“Last year, over 13,000 cricket fans underwent a SWL Health Check at the Boxing Day Test, and we’re aiming for even more in 2025,” Ms Cain said. 

“While not all diabetes can be prevented, and some people are at higher risk due to genetic factors or family history, we know that 58 percent of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented or delayed. For that to happen, we need to reach people who are at risk. 

“This Boxing Day Test, we’re encouraging attendees to take a few minutes out of their day to visit the SWL Health Check stations and get to know their numbers. 

“The great thing about the SWL Health Checks is that they are free, quick and self-serve, and they give people information on their key health metrics that can help start a conversation with their health professional. 

“Shane Warne was a much-loved fixture of Australian sport, both as a larger-than-life cricketer and as an iconic personality with a passion for community. ������ is proud to partner with the SWL to encourage greater diabetes awareness and health screening.” 

1.3 million Australians are living with type 2 diabetes, and 2 million more are at risk, which could include around 7,000 people at risk in a stadium the size of the MCG – or 1 in 14 attendees. 

The Shane Warne Legacy CEO Helen Nolan said the health check initiative perfectly reflects Shane’s belief in supporting individuals and the wider community.  

“I know he would have been genuinely thrilled to see a program with such meaningful impact come to life. These screenings are more than just a check on your health, they’re a chance to take proactive steps towards a stronger, healthier future. Because of the awareness Shane’s name brings many people have embraced this mindset, and I know he would have encouraged everyone to make the most of these free services,” Ms Nolan said. 

This year 56 SiSU Health Stations will be available throughout the MCG, giving cricket fans easy access to quick, non-invasive health assessments. Each self-serve station measures blood pressure, body composition, heart rate, BMI, and AUSDRISK, with results delivered instantly on-screen and via the SiSU Health mobile app. 

In addition to the self-serve stations, clinician-led finger-prick blood tests for cholesterol and blood glucose levels will be offered to eligible participants. If elevated risks are identified, users are encouraged to follow up with a healthcare professional. 

Free SWL Health Checks are also available nationwide, year-round on SiSU Health Stations at over 300 locations, visit  to learn more. 

Together with Shane Warne Legacy, ������ is committed to raising awareness about the risks of serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes and its close connection with other chronic conditions.   

More information about type 2 diabetes prevention is available to individuals by calling 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) on 1800 773 8368 or visiting /prevention/1800prevent/

Two of the Women’s National Basketball League’s (WNBL) best will face off on December 20 to shine a spotlight on young people living with diabetes as Sydney Flames forward, Lara McSpadden, takes on the Townsville Fire’s Lauren Cox.   

Lara McSpadden is a ������ Blue Circle Collective Ambassador and Lauren Cox is a ������ Blue Circle Collective Community Advocate.  

Both athletes live with type 1 diabetes, with the match highlighting awareness, early screening, and support for people living with diabetes.   

������’s Group CEO Justine Cain thanked Lara and the Flames for supporting people living with diabetes to attend their home game, saying the basketball stars from both teams are proof that diabetes is no barrier to living a full life, including competing at an elite level.   

“A type 1 diabetes diagnosis can be quite confronting, especially for young people and their families,” she said.   

“But, as Lara and Lauren have proven, people living with diabetes can live active, fulfilling lives and reach their full potential.  

“These athletes are an inspiration and ������ is grateful to the Sydney Flames for their support of both Lara and Sydney families living with diabetes attending the game.”  

������ Ambassador Lara McSpadden said her type 1 diabetes diagnosis came as a shock, but with the right support and management, she was able to continue her basketball journey. 

“There is a lot of extra decision-making, especially when I was first diagnosed, but I was still able to do all the things I did before, with my parents being massive supporters and taking on a lot of the learning,” she said.    

“I’ve been lucky enough that on each team I’ve played for, my teammates and staff have been very supportive, and always making sure it’s an environment where I can get the things I need to make sure my performance is high whilst keeping my levels right.  

“Living with diabetes is a marathon, not a sprint, and if you beat yourself up over little things it’ll be a challenge. Just ride the wave and make small adjustments, and usually positive results will come.” 

Ms Cain said ������ is asking Australians to be aware of the signs of diabetes, and to understand that support is available for people at risk, newly diagnosed, and those living with diabetes, as well as their families.     

“We’re encouraging everyone to be aware of the four Ts of type 1 diabetes – thirst, thinner, toilet, and tired,” she said.  

“If you recognise these symptoms, contact your health professional for advice as soon as possible.  

“Help and support is available through ������ and dedicated programs like DiaBuddies, which supports young people living with type 1 diabetes and their families with information, resources, and community. 

“Diabetes YOUnited, our national membership program, is also a fantastic source of information and support for people living with all types of diabetes.” 

The ������ annual Christmas Appeal is currently underway, raising funds that will provide life changing support for families and young people navigating life with all types of diabetes.   

For more information or to support the Christmas appeal, visit diabetesaustralia.com.au   

Children living with type 1 diabetes and their families enjoyed a free day out at Luna Park in Sydney, at a special event made possible by ������ in the lead up to World Diabetes Day (14 November).

������ Group CEO Justine Cain said the aim of the day was to bring fun, laughter and community to families navigating life with type 1 diabetes.

More than 150 people, including children with diabetes and their families, attended the free day out.

Type 1 diabetes is a complex and serious autoimmune condition that affects 14,200 children and teenagers in Australia.

“Living with diabetes is about more than numbers—it’s about people, progress, and possibility. At ������, we’re doing everything we can to support children and their families who live with diabetes,” Ms Cain said.

“A diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children can be incredibly stressful for parents, carers and families – it requires constant vigilance and can impact the whole family.” 

“Whilst we don’t yet know the cause, early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of complications and serious illness.”

“Raising awareness is key and this World Diabetes Day, one of our goals is to shine a light on the importance of screening and early detection of type 1 diabetes.”

“It’s important to be aware of the early warning signs or what we call the 4Ts – Tired, Thirsty, Thinner and Toilet.  If you notice your child has signs of type 1 diabetes, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.”

Emma Bond, Blue Circle Collective Youth Advocate, joined the group at Luna Park and shared about her own experience living with type 1 diabetes.

“Having grown up in the central-western region of NSW, I truly treasure and understand the importance of creating spaces and active communities for everyone living with diabetes.

“This year I will be celebrating having lived with type 1 diabetes for twelve years (1 year longer than when I was diagnosed at 11) and whilst I know that I still have many more years to go, I love encouraging children and young people who are on the same journey,” Ms Bond said.

������ provides a range of resources, educational videos, and programs to support children living with type 1 diabetes and their families. One of these is the DiaBuddies program, which helps children with type 1 diabetes, their families and carers feel connected, confident, and part of a community through social activities that support education, peer support, and leadership opportunities.

Chef, TV personality, proud family man, and ������ Ambassador, Miguel Maestre is someone who believes in the power of food to bring people together and lift the spirit.

His journey to becoming one of Australia’s most loved food personalities started in the sun-drenched south of Spain, in a city called Murcia. The region is known for its vibrant festivals and is sometimes referred to as the “Garden of Europe” due to its fertile lands and agricultural production. The area is bursting with fresh produce, flavour, and family – all things Miguel still holds close.

The middle child of three brothers, Miguel grew up in a home full of laughter, joy and great food. His parents are still in Murcia, “they are beautiful, still in love, and both happy and healthy,” says Miguel.

Food at the heart of his childhood

His grandfather, a towering, strong-willed man ran a farm, fathered 20 children, and lived with diabetes.

“He was 150 kilos and as stubborn as anything,” says Miguel. “I think about him a lot. He was part of the big, noisy family I grew up in where food was love, and food brought people together.”

On Sundays the entire extended family gathered around a huge paella pan or a roasting tray of pork at the farm.

“We picked capsicums straight from the plant, pulled watermelons out of the ground. Food wasn’t just a meal, it was an event,” says Miguel.

From those big, joyful gatherings, Miguel’s passion grew.

A journey from Spain to Scotland, and on to Sydney

At 19, driven by a desire to cook and a hunger for adventure, Miguel packed up and left Spain to become a chef. His first stop was Edinburgh.

“It was a baptism of fire,” he laughs. “I washed dishes, peeled prawns, and worked security as a bouncer on weekends, but I loved every second of it.”

Three years in Edinburgh not only sharpened his culinary skills but also introduced him to Sascha, the woman who would become his wife. Together, they chased a new dream across the globe to Australia. Miguel and Sascha arrived in Sydney with “a suitcase full of dreams, an empty wallet, and a passion for life”.

Kitchen to camera

In Australia, Miguel worked with some of the country’s culinary greats, such as Tony Bilson and Serge Dansereau, across iconic kitchens including Bathers’ Pavilion in Bondi. But it was a chance encounter during a TV shoot at the Pavilion that changed everything.

A producer spotted something in Miguel, charisma, warmth, and a spark that couldn’t be ignored. “He thought I might be good on TV,” says Miguel. “His famous last words.”

Soon, he found himself filming segments with Ed Halmagyi on Better Homes and Gardens and, just three weeks later, Miguel landed a contract with Channel 7.

From Boys Weekend on Foxtel to 11 years and over 600 episodes on The Living Room with Network 10, Miguel became a household name. He was a natural in front of the camera, known for his humour, heart, and high-energy.

“Live cooking is my favourite thing to do. Last year I did over 35 live shows, including my 100th Good Food & Wine Show. I’m the Rafael Nadal of cooking demos,” he laughs.

Alongside his many live shows, Miguel is also a savvy entrepreneur. Under his brand, Miguel is now one of Australia’s largest manufacturers of free-range pork and has over 70 products on shelves. But if you ask him his biggest achievement, he doesn’t hesitate “Being the husband to Sascha and dad to Claudia and Morgan,” he replies.

A Spanish soul with Aussie roots

While Miguel is proudly Spanish, he’s deeply in love with Australia and its native ingredients.

“I’ve made paella with buffalo and crocodile in the Northern Territory, and cooked barramundi straight from the water wrapped in paperbark over fire.

“I love using lemon myrtle, it has a very Mediterranean taste, and pepperberry – the leaves burn in your mouth. I love bush tomatoes, fish, and salt clams. There are so many amazing ingredients in Australia.”

Miguel is also passionate about simple, fresh ingredients.

“Extra virgin olive oil is very important. We are lucky in Australia to have amazing olive oil. And bananas, avocados, mangoes, tomatoes, fish, shellfish, nuts, garlic, and chilli. Leafy greens are amazing – I make a salad every day. And cos lettuce! It is the most underrated ingredient in the world.”

Miguel’s budget tips

Miguel doesn’t believe good food needs to be expensive; the secret is planning for the week ahead.

• Know what you’re cooking each day and tell the family. You can save 40% on your food budget with good planning.
• Never shop hungry.
• Buy in bulk. Get a whole chicken instead of chicken pieces, large packs of mince, rice, pasta, legumes.
• If you buy in bulk, you can also prep in bulk. Make a huge pan of Bolognese and use it for different meals across the week. Think spaghetti Bolognese, tacos, burritos, cottage pie.
• Use everything – boil the carcass of the roast chicken in water and then you have a delicious stock for risotto.

“We get carried away with things like wagyu,” he says. “If you want steak, just use one small piece, slice it really thin and serve with loads of veggies and salad.

“We just need to be smarter. Roast carrots in the oven with mustard. That is so cheap and turns into the most delicious accompaniment. You will be amazed at how much you can save.”

Fuss free food

Miguel is passionate about helping everyday people fall in love with cooking.

“You don’t need to be on MasterChef to cook dinner,” he says. “A French omelette with ham and cheese is a great start.

“If you are scared of chopping chicken – that’s okay. Buy it pre-cut, and grab a bag of salad. Just get started.

“For good health, reduce the amount of salt you use and instead reach for the herbs and veggies. A clove of garlic, lamb mince, and a handful of mint, roll into meatballs and you’re done.

“Add veggies to everything zucchini in your Bolognese, spiralised carrots in frittatas, grated cauliflower in couscous. The kids won’t even notice.

“And make your own sauces,” he adds. “One egg, splash of vinegar and boom. Homemade mayo. So much healthier than the bottled stuff.”

Food, mood, and mental health

As an RUOK? ambassador, Miguel is a big believer in the power of food to lift mood.

“When you eat a fresh watermelon from the fridge it feels amazing, right? Way better than a lolly. A salad makes you feel good. Fried chicken might taste good in the moment, but a big greasy meal makes me feel terrible.”

For Miguel, eating well isn’t just about nutrition, it’s a way of life that supports mental wellbeing. He used his platform on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2020 to help start conversations about mental health and burnout. He knows firsthand the relentless pressure in hospitality and says when you mix that with the stigma people often feel about speaking up, it can get dark very quickly. He raised $100,000 for RUOK?, and left the jungle with a renewed passion for resourceful, joyful cooking.

Miguel Maestre is many things: chef, entertainer, entrepreneur, dad, husband, and above all, a passionate believer that food is more than fuel – it’s connection, comfort, and a daily reminder that looking after yourself can start with what’s on your plate.

This National Diabetes Week (July 13 to 19) Australians who have lived with type 1 diabetes for 50 years or more were recognised with Kellion Victory Medals at a special ceremony at Perth’s Government House.

The Kellion Victory Medals are a celebration of strength, resilience and lifelong self-management. They honour the extraordinary commitment of people living with diabetes and are named in memory of John Kellion, who died at age 38 due to complications from type 1 diabetes. His father, Claude Kellion, established the Kellion Diabetes Foundation, which has contributed more than $1 million to diabetes research and education.

A number of Kellion presentations have been held throughout National Diabetes Week.

Among this year’s recipients is Colleen Ashby, 60, from Perth’s Kalamunda Hills, whose inspiring journey with type 1 diabetes spans five decades. Diagnosed at just nine years old at Princess Margaret Hospital in 1974, Colleen has refused to let diabetes define or limit her life.

She is the author of two books, I Can See Clearly Now and You Got to Laugh.

Colleen says living with diabetes has taught her persistence and adaptability.

“Diabetes has been part of my life since I was a child but it has never stopped me from achieving.

“There were times I was told I could not do something because of injuries or past surgeries but I have always believed that your abilities matter more than your limitations.

“After the transplant and losing my sight, I knew I couldn’t teach dance anymore but with my 5% peripheral vision I knew I could follow a black line in a pool. I learned to swim competitively and found new ways to live fully.

“Receiving the Kellion Medal means a lot to me. It’s recognition of not just living with diabetes but of living well and not giving in.”

At the event, ������ also announced Gordon Bunyan as the inaugural Australian Kellion Victory Medal Ambassador. Gordon, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 50 years, is a respected lawyer, long-time ������ Board member and diabetes advocate, and competitive sports car driver. He has served as the chairperson of the International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region (IDF WPR) Council, as well as IDF vice president. He is the co-chair of the IDF WPR Congress 2026 Organising Committee, with the Congress to be held in Melbourne next year.    

As Kellion Ambassador, he represents the voices of people who know the challenges of living with type 1 diabetes long-term and highlight the importance of improved care, research and support.

Mr Bunyan said the Kellion Victory Medals are a powerful reminder of what is possible with early diagnosis, access to care, and strong community support.

“These medal recipients have lived with type 1 diabetes for more than half a century,” Mr Bunyan said. “Their stories are a testament to resilience, innovation in care, and the importance of research and education. These are values Claude Kellion upheld when he established the foundation in memory of his son.

“Claude wanted people living with diabetes to have access to the best education about the condition so they could live long and healthy lives,” Mr Bunyan said.

About ������

������ is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, state-based diabetes organisations, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au