Let’s Talk About What Our Kids Are Eating

&

How We Can Do Better Together

Our Mission

To start a conversation about the food surrounding our children and to work together to create positive, lasting change.

We believe that every child deserves access to nourishing, real food. But right now, they’re growing up in a world filled with ultra-processed snacks and sugary treats at every turn. If you’ve ever looked at the lines of packaged foods at the checkout, you know what we mean! That’s the food environment — and it’s shaping their health, habits and future. We know that the easy way to treat kids is to give them food. But when they are surrounded by so much unhealthy food, their health is affected. Its not about what parents are feeding children- its all of society. Kids get these foods at school, at sports, in all sorts of places- because they are cheap, and easy.

We celebrate cultural occasions with special foods- we are not about taking away anyones’ birthday cake or banning treats! We’re just trying to get the balance right.

We need action from government to make healthy foods more available and affordable.

We are here to raise awareness, share knowledge and most importantly, bring people together — parents, teachers, local businesses and community members so we can build a healthier, more supportive food culture for the next generation.

Because when we talk, we learn. And when we work together, we make change happen.

STOP AND THINK: Making Healthier Choices For Kids

Step 1

Review Current Food Options

Take a moment to look at what snacks and meals are currently available to kids in your premises. What’s offered as rewards in school, after matches, at cultural events?

Step 2

Consider More Positive Alternatives

Ask yourself: Is there a more nutritious or balanced option that kids will still enjoy? It doesn’t have to be food! Small swaps can make a big difference over time.

Step 3

Make a bite-size change

Make a plan for change and start small. Try making one simple change today — add a piece of fruit, swap out sugary drinks, or include a veggie dip. Keep it manageable!

Meet the Team

Melissa Byrne
Registered Dietitian & Founder

CORU ID DI015637

Gillian Hegarty
Chef & Founder

Dominyka Jevstafjeva

ANutr

Project Executive

Our Story

Hey there! We are Gillian and Melissa - two mums on a mission. Together with an amazing crew of like-minded folks from Clonakilty and the surrounding areas to create a healthier, more supportive food environment for our children.

We are passionate about shining a light on the food world our kids are growing up in — what’s known as the “food environment.” From the flood of highly processed, low-nutrient snacks to the real impact these foods are having on children’s health, we think it’s time to talk about it, get curious, and make some noise (the good kind!).

Melissa and Gillian both work directly with kids. Gillian teaches cooking with a focus on local and sustainable food. Melissa works with children in clinics to help them with food related health issues.

Hey, my name is Dominyka (Nika for short), a registered Associate Nutritionist (ANutr) with a background in Public Health Science and a Master’s in Nutrition. I am a foodie and passionate about making good food fun, accessible and part of everyday life.

Together with Gillian and Melissa, I’m proud to be a part of the Clonakility Kids Food Revolution, helping create healthier food environments and habits for young children.