Ash Barty’s plea to Aussies over shocking Vegemite stat

Tennis ace Ash Barty is making a plea on behalf of another Aussie icon — the humble jar of Vegemite. Have your say.

Tennis champion Ash Barty has finally passed down her love of Vegemite to her one-year-old son Hayden, who she proudly declares a “Vegemite kid”.

But the retired mum and three-time grand slam winner still can’t believe 30 per cent of Aussies don’t eat Vegemite at all.

The startling statistic from research conducted on behalf of Bega has led her to launch a wider plea to the nation for Vegemite fans to “share their passion with others and introduce it to other people.”

“Hayden has tried it on toast and loved it,” she added. “When I first heard the survey results, I was honestly a little surprised! It’s hard to imagine a pantry without a jar of Vegemite – it’s such a quintessential part of Australian life.”

The retired mum and three-time grand slam winner still can’t believe 30 per cent of Aussies don’t eat Vegemite at all.

Barty, who is leading the charge for the Unite with Vegemite online campaign, said it is so important to show how versatile Vegemite is. “We want to make it easier for everyone to feel confident picking up a jar and giving it a go.”

The research indicated one of the reasons almost a third of Aussies don’t eat Vegemite is because they haven’t been introduced to it properly, especially those who have moved to Australia from overseas.

Barty has some advice for those who haven’t tried it.

Gary Kissick, Ash Barty and son Hayden. Picture: Instagram

“Vegemite is such a distinctive part of Aussie culture, and for those who didn’t grow up with it, it can be tricky to know where to start, and let’s be honest, trying it straight from the jar with a spoon might not be the best introduction!” she said.

Barty suggested trying to use Vegemite in a variety of ways, whether it’s “a classic toastie, paired with avocado, or even used in a recipe like spaghetti, pizza or a parmy.”

And she even has a suggestion for those who have tried it — and spat it right out.

“I say give it another go, but start small!” the tennis champ advised. “Vegemite has a unique taste that’s best enjoyed with the right balance – like a thin spread on buttered toast. It’s all about finding your perfect way to enjoy it. Once you get it right, it’s hard not to love.

“I’ve definitely introduced a few people on the tennis circuit to Vegemite. Let’s just say there were some that were a little skeptical at first, but have since become big fans.”

Originally published as Ash Barty’s plea to Aussies over shocking Vegemite stat