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Women of influence: Maggie Beer

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ HAM. STYLING BY GEORGIA ASHDOWN

We asked our readers to nominate Australian women they considered to be extremely influential and the response has been overwhelming. We profile two of the six inspiring achievers and reveals their lessons for success.

Maggie Beer, 60s. Cook and writer

Long before MasterChef, Maggie Beer was inspiring Australians to appreciate home cooking and fresh ingredients.

In pictures: Women we admire

She made her name at Pheasant Farm Restaurant in the Barossa Valley, South Australia, and then put local food on the international map with her gourmet products such as pâté, verjuice and quince paste. Maggie is loved as much for her warm smile as for her fuss-free cooking. “Her food is from the heart,” says Fran Abdallaoui, The Australian Women’s Weekly’s Food Editor.

  1. Search for what it is that’s going to connect your mind and your heart.

  2. Persistence.

  3. Accept constructive criticism.

  4. Believe in yourself

  5. Never forget family, or doing things just for your heart.

Your say: What do you think of this story? Who do you think are Australia’s most influential women? Share with us below.

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Related video: TODAY interviews Maggie Beer, who was named Senior Australian of the Year earlier this year.

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