Pride of Australia Medal 2015: Soul food sisters are women of sustenance

THEY are women feeding the state with food straight from the soul, teaching the importance of nourishing dishes and helping the homeless and disadvantaged.

Mem Hockley runs a food and cooking program called Mem's Soul Food

THEY are the women feeding the state with food straight from the soul.

Chef Mem Hockley ­started Mem’s Soul Food to teach young Hunter women the importance of good food and home cooking.

Lana Borg founded Mama Lana’s Community Foundation, serving meals to the homeless and disadvantaged around Penrith. Thirroul’s Shaz Harrison-Shaw sends food parcels to those who need it via her Need a Feed.

Mem Hockley with volunteers Brodie Bowles, 15, Brooke Kennedy, 16, and Sam Nicholls, 21.

All three have been nominated for a Pride of Australia Community Spirit Medal, a News Corp initiative proudly supported by ClubsNSW, and Ms Hockley, for one, simply couldn’t be happier.

“I’m proud that somebody out there recognised the amount of work I’ve put into this,” the 39-year-old mother of three said.

“I knew straight away this was what I was going to be doing — if not forever, well, for a very long time.”

NOMINATE SOMEONE FOR A PRIDE OF AUSTRALIA MEDAL

Mem’s Soul Food is now in its third year and not only helps girls learn cooking, health and nutrition but also teaches them about opportunity, positivity, family and self-worth.

Similarly, Lana Borg and husband Roger work tirelessly on Mama Lana’s Community Foundation, a charity run completely by volunteers. They do their day jobs, care for their children and provide hot, nutritious meals four nights a week for their patrons.

Ms Harrison-Shaw set up Need a Feed more than two years ago and has since helped thousands of families. She is also organising a Christmas Day lunch in Port Kembla for those who may be by themselves, homeless or lonely and in need of some company.

To nominate someone worthy you know, visit ­prideofaustralia.com.au