Chocolate queen Kirsten Tibballs has been awarded the Ordre du Mérite Agricole (Order of Agricultural Merit).

The appointment was made on July 31 by the French Ministry of Agriculture, and recognised the outstanding contributions to agriculture, gastronomy, wine and the food sector.

Secrétaire général – Présidence de la République Française Pierre-Andre Imbert made the announcement, commenting on LinkedIn, “a well deserved recognition of their talent, dedication and contribution to the world of food, wine, hospitality and agriculture, as well as to the enduring friendship between France and Australia.”

Kirsten said she was deeply honoured by the recognition.

“I am deeply honoured and incredibly humbled to share that I have been appointed as  Knight (Chevalier) of the Ordre du Mérite Agricole (Order of Agricultural Merit) by the French Ministry of Agriculture,” she wrote in LinkedIn.

“To receive an official knighthood from the French Government is a milestone beyond my wildest dreams. This honour recognises contributions to gastronomy.

“French patisserie techniques have shaped my life’s work, and being able to share that passion with students, chefs, and food lovers globally has been its own reward. To have that dedication recognised at a state level is profoundly moving.

“A heartfelt thank you to his Excellency Pierre-Andre Imbert and The Embassy of France in Australia for this extraordinary distinction.

“I also want to extend my warmest congratulations to my fellow Australian culinary peers who were recognised in this year’s promotions. The best is yet to come!”

In 2025 Kate Reid of Lune fame was recognised with the award.