As part of its 100-year anniversary, Vegemite is releasing a remake of its iconic 1956 Happy Little Vegemites advertisement. The ad had its first remake in the early 80s and this year, more than 10,000 kids applied to audition for the six roles in the latest version.
The ad features Trish Cavanagh, who appeared in the first ad 64 years ago. In the original, Cavanagh was seven years old and starred as the marcher on top of the Vegemite jar during the song and eating a slice of Vegemite toast at its end.
Now 71, Cavanagh said at seven, she didn’t realise what she was getting herself into.
“I’m so honoured Vegemite asked me to be involved in the ad that changed my life forever. Vegemite has been and continues to play a huge role in my life, and I am so thrilled to be passing the baton to the next generation of Happy Little Vegemite kids,” said Cavanagh.
“These children today don’t realise what a big event this is for them, and I hope in the years to come they look back with pride. To be in the remake of the original Vegemite ad for Vegemite’s 100th birthday is something very special. Get ready for the ride kids – I think it will be a long one!”
Bega Foods general manager, marketing, Matt Gray said the Happy Little Vegemites jingle has been woven into Australian culture.
Trish Cavanagh, was given a tour of the Vegemite factory, which has been on the same site since
the first jar rolled off the line.
“When Vegemite announced the remake of the Happy Little Vegemites ad, we knew one thing was true – it was a chance for some lucky kids to weave themselves into the Aussie history books. Vegemite has played a key role in this great nation since 1923, and we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate its incredible legacy than by inviting a new generation of Happy Little Vegemite’s to be a part of something incredibly special.
“The new Happy Little Remake, and the next generation of Happy Little Vegemites, proudly celebrates the tapestry of Aussie life – where the simple act of enjoying Vegemite brings people together and fosters a sense of belonging and nostalgia that resonates within every Australian heart,” Gray said.
Vegemite Bites
- The spread was launched in 1923 and is manufactured on the same site as Vegemite is made today.
- The amount of Vegemite produced each year could cover one billion slices of bread.
- Bega produces 20 million jars of Vegemite every year.
- Every batch of Vegemite is tasted by an expert panel for quality control.
- Vegemite is available in the UK, New Zealand, throughout Asia and the Middle East, but the vast majority is sold – and eaten – in Australia.
