The farmer, food producer, exporter, food writer and television presenter was recognised as part of the Australia Day celebrations.

“How incredibly humbled I am to be given this honour,” Maggie said at Tuesday’s presentation in Canberra.

Maggie is no stranger to ‘of the year’ type awards.

In 1991 her Pheasant Farm Restaurant won a ‘restaurant of the year’ award and in 1997 Maggie was the Telstra ‘business woman of the year’.

There have been plenty of other awards, as well as seven books and a successful television show filmed in her kitchen.

“All I am doing is what I love,” Maggie said.

“Food is just part of my life.”

Since 1970, when she relocated with husband Colin to South Australia, it has been Barossa produce at the centre of that life.

“To me, the most important thing is to use what’s on my doorstep,” Maggie said. And she is not at all embarrassed about her ‘senior’ award.

“This is an amazing time in my life,” Maggie said.

“Everything is just coming together and it is wonderful, it just gets better and better.”

Premier Mike Rann was delighted with the honour.

“Maggie is a great Australian who has been one of the pioneers of promoting South Australia’s fresh food industry,” Mr Rann said.

“She would best be described as the maestro of great taste.”

And Prime Minister Kevin Rudd was thrilled when he announced the award on Tuesday.

“I think this will whet the nation’s appetite,” Mr Rudd said.

But the last word must go to the food guru...

“Never underestimate the pleasure and joy cooking can bring,” Maggie said.

“Food changes lives.”