Sharing the magic of Christmas, one bake at a time
Staff at John Hunter Children’s Hospital swapped scrubs for spatulas once again as the Big Bake for Little Lives returned for its second year.
The much-loved event invited staff to bake their best festive creations, all to raise money as part of the Share the Magic of Christmas annual appeal.
Special guest judge Reece Hignell, from Newcastle’s own Cakeboi and former MasterChef Australia favourite, was on hand to judge and crown this year’s champions.
Participants competed across three deliciously fun categories:
- Overall Showstopper – the bake that brings the biggest wow-factor, packed with creativity and visual flair. The winner was a meringue Christmas tree with a pistachio cream created by duo Erin and Tracy from our ADHD team.
- Best Christmas Treat Treasure – a flavour-packed festive favourite that captures the spirit of Christmas. Won by a pavlova made by Brooke an occupational therapist.
- Ultimate Family Sweet Tradition Showdown – a beloved family recipe or heirloom bake that’s been passed down and perfected over generations. Won by Glen, the parent of a previous Children’s Hospital patient, for his “Toblerone Knockoff”.
Matthew Frith, General Manager of John Hunter Children’s Hospital who initiated the baking competition, was delighted by the number of cakes and sweet treats turned out.
“The Big Bake idea came about as I was meeting with teams across John Hunter Children’s Hospital. It didn’t matter which ward or unit I was in, there was always talk of cakes and impressive morning teas.
“Baking for others is part of our social fabric and I thought, what better way to strengthen our team than by introducing a bit of healthy competition.”
This year more than 60 entries were received across the three categories.
“The event is a fun and meaningful way for our hospital community to come together and support the children and families in our care,” said Matthew.
The 2025 Big Bake for Little Lives was proudly supported by Port Waratah Coal Service, Joel Gosper and the team at NewFM and Reece Hignell from Cakeboi.
Help share the magic of Christmas by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/john-hunter-childrens-hospital and making a donation today.
Funds raised will support improved patient experiences, hospital capital projects that benefit children receiving care, and provide practical assistance for families facing financial pressures during long periods of treatment.
Together, let’s share the magic of Christmas with sick kids.