Missy Peacharoo encourages kids to eat more fruit and vegetables

Fresh fruit marketing expert Mira Milich, Divine Fruits, created Missy Peacharoo, a larger than life kangaroo with a distinctly peach-like midriff.

Missy Peacharoo performs live at events with a central theme of educating and entertaining children about seasonal fruit and vegetables with interactive games, songs and dance.

Ms Milich said after working with growers for more than six years, she noticed a gap in the awareness of the work farmers do and the education for children on the benefits fresh fruit and vegetables have in their day-to-day lives.

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"Childhood nutrition has a major influence on health throughout the entire lifespan," Ms Milich said.

"Despite this, 99 per cent of Australian children do not meet the recommended daily serves of fruit and vegetables.

"It is important to introduce a variety of fruits and vegetables early in a child's life."

Ms Milich said the character has become loved by children and adults alike, with children drawn to the cute features while immersing themselves into the interactive games.

"When I watch them interact and talk about their experiences on their grandparents' farm or sharing their favourite fruit and veggies, it fills my heart with joy," she said.

The educational program aligns with the Australian Curriculum for early learning years and up to grade three.

"We have many new and exciting things coming and are hoping to gain the support from sponsors," Ms Milich said.

Missy Peacharoo sends an important message to all children to eat fruit and vegetables everyday and try something new, with the catchphrase: "Hop into health with Missy Peacharoo."

The character has her own website which contains free activities for children, recipes, a blog, contact information and links to the various social media channels.

One of the mothers that attended a performance, Lauren Keeves, gave high praise to the concept.

"Missy Peacharoo is an absolutely wonderful character and role model for my children," Ms Keeves said.

"My almost 3-year-old is obsessed and it's great to see her encouraged by Missy Peacharoo to eat and learn about fruit and veggies while having fun at the same time."

The educational program is being delivered to early learning centres (ELCs) and schools, councils and corporate events.

"Our show has been well received and I'm absolutely overwhelmed with joy as we have our first Active and Healthy Gold Coast school holiday program on January 10, 2023. We're very excited," Ms Milich said.

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