Virginia Hill, Microwave Specialist

Virginia Hill was first introduced to microwaving in 1977 when demonstrating for the Sharp Corporation. In 1980, in recognition of the need for wider education about microwaving, Virginia established her Melbourne consultancy, the “Cooking Centre”. She conducted ongoing classes to appreciative groups for many years.

The Centre was the recognised authority on microwaving and cooking for people living with Diabetes in Australia, and with companies and individuals relying on Virginia’s expertise and educational know-how.

Australia’s cookbook success story

In 1982, Virginia Hill published the first local microwaving cookbook, titled ‘All-Australian Microwave Recipes’, which was released with an accompanying video. Since then Virginia has achieved outstanding sales with these publications:

Year	Title	Est. Book Sales
1989	Virginia Hill's Microwave Hints & Recipes	7,500+
1989	Virginia Hill's Microwave Recipes	7,500+
1991	Microwave Tips & Techniques	250,000+
1992	Microwave Companion	10,000+
1993	Microwave Stack Cooking (Tupperware)	550,000+
1993	Microwave Cooking for Babies & Toddlers	20,000
1994	Virginia Hill’s Learn to Microwave	5,000+
1995	Microwave Meals in Minutes	20,000
1996	Simply Delicious Food for People with Diabetes	See note*
1997	Fit Food for Fellas	10,000
1999	Sweet Sensations (suitable for diabetes)	See note*
2000	Food in a Flash	15,000
2003	Zap To The Max	5,000+
2002	Ultimate Diabetes Cook Book	See note*
2005	Microwave Meals on the Move	20,000

*Total sales for 3 Diabetes cook books were 120,000

Corporate Consultation

Over the years, Virginia was closely linked to major commercial organisations, acting in an advisory capacity and playing a key role in developing joint ventures and promotional campaigns. She helped Australian companies to capitalise in the booming microwave market. Together with Tupperware Australia Pty Ltd, she researched, developed and wrote “Stack” Cook Books for their unique microwave Stack Cooking System, now tied in with their revolutionary “Oven Works” Cookware and extensive microwave range.

The Cooking Centre managed assignments that include:

• Testing for new & upgraded products
• Recipe conversions for microwave application
• New product development with Australian produce
• Joint promotional activities
• Major national home shows
• In-store microwave cooking demonstrations
• New product exposure for classes at the Centre
• Cooking segments on national television and Radio 3AW and 3GB

Over the years, Virginia Hill consulted professionally on behalf of the following organisations:

• Tupperware Australia Pty Ltd
• Victoria Market Cooking School
• Carter Hold Harvey – Tissue
• Bertolli Australia Pty Ltd
• Agmark Pty Ltd
• Starmaid

Emphasis on Health

In association with consulting dietitians, Virginia also conducted group demonstrations. She helped in providing specific dietary guidelines in conjunction with chosen programs to suit the needs of various organisations.

Presentations were made to the following:

• Collingwood Football Club
• AFL Umpires
• Melbourne Storm
• International Diabetes Institute
• Diabetes Australia
• Freemasons Hospital
• HBA Health Management – Corporate Clients
• Health Works Corporat
• Telstra (API Fitness Programs)
• Development Fresh Food