What’s happening?
Townsville local Emina Shailer is doing great things at Oonoonba State School, where she runs the tuckshop like a tight ship, feeding hundreds of hungry tummies day in and day out. She is recognised as a pillar of the school community and has built a remarkable volunteer program, which is no easy task in today’s busy world.
Two of her recipes have been shortlisted as finalists in the 2025 Tuckshop Recipe of the Year competition, a major achievement for a regional school. Her healthy twist on two-minute noodles, along with the simplicity and student appeal of her Easy Soy & Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, impressed the judges and secured her a place among the finalists.
Why it matters
Emina is proof that healthy food can be both exciting and affordable, while still being quick to prepare and popular with students. Her mission to bring healthier foods into school tuckshops was also in the spotlight just last week, when she was a speaker at Health and Wellbeing Queensland’s A Better Choice Conference. Her knowledge and relatability made her a stand-out on the day.
By the numbers
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2 Oonoonba State School recipes are finalists in the statewide competition.
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Hundreds of students are served daily through Emina’s tuckshop.
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A total of 6 other recipes from across Queensland are also in the running.
Zoom in
Emina’s two dishes will be prepared and presented to a judging panel of industry representatives and school students next week in Brisbane. The finalists include entries from schools in Logan, Gold Coast, Mackay, Lockyer Valley and Brisbane.
Zoom out
Emina is vying for the top prize alongside five other recipes from across Queensland. The competition recognises the creativity and dedication of tuckshops working hard to provide healthy food choices for students statewide.
Local impact
Her success showcases the strength of Oonoonba State School’s tuckshop program and shines a spotlight on Townsville in this statewide contest.
What to look for next
The overall winner of the 2025 Tuckshop Recipe of the Year competition will be announced on Thursday, 11 September.
