Marcia and husband Andy Georges are Brisbane restaurant royalty; Marcia's late father Michael Karlos was instrumental in building Brisbane's restaurant scene in the '50s, and Andy has carried on the tradition, as owners of Il Centro for the past 20 years and now, Mr & Mrs G Riverbar.

Sadly, in 2008 the couple lost their son Darren to cancer and, motivated to raise money for cancer research, the inimitable Mrs G set to work writing a cookbook inspired by both her Greek upbringing and the Italian influence of her husband and his family. Originally released as a downloadable e-book, a paper copy of the book, which is part-autobiography, part-cookbook, is now out. So far Marcia has raised a hefty $20,000 for the Bowel and Cancer Research Trust. With all profits going to the charity, she hopes to hit her goal of $100,000. Greek by Heritage, Italian by Heart is available for sale at Il Centro, Mr & Mrs G Riverbar and all good bookshops for $45.

Donations to Marcia's charity can be made at www.everydayhero.com.au/marcia-georges