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More About Michelle
Every meal that is created required hands to be spoilt.
My Story
Michelle O’Dwyer professional chef and director of Bay Tree Catering running successfully for over 15 years. Cooking at the 2012 Olympics for the Olympic committee. Executive chef at Event City, 2014 and 2017 Ryder Cup and catering for the Australian cricket team.
Michelle is also a qualified teacher working with adult education for five years and running cookery workshops throughout Merseyside. This lead her to start Bay Tree Cookery Academy CIC which is a not-for-profit community interest company.
This CIC works to improve access to healthy, nutritious food, to help individuals and families develop skills in cooking and nutrition, to reduce food waste and to tackle poverty, hunger, malnutrition and lack of skill and aspiration in high deprivation areas of Liverpool.
Years running Baytree CIC
Helping the Vulnerable
Michelle partners with food suppliers and local community organisations to ensure food that would otherwise be wasted gets to where it is needed most. Supporting the most vulnerable members of the community with access not just to fresh, healthy food but the skills to turn it into exciting nutritious meals along with bringing communities together and breaking down social isolation.
Michelle farther was a Royal Green Jacket and one of Michelle’s passions is working with, supporting military veterans and their families which she’s been doing since 2016. Bay Tree Cookery Academy CIC is Gold Armed Forces Covenant Award holders in the employer recognition scheme.
Dedicated to fostering inclusive, equitable communities, Michelle has been a passionate advocate for community inclusion across diverse social, cultural, and ability-based backgrounds. With a strong belief that everyone deserves a meaningful place in society, Michelle to break down barriers, promote understanding, and build environments where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to participate fully.
Collaboration
Michelle works with organisations across Merseyside and has collaborated with local organisations, schools, community centres, religious organisations, charities and civic leaders to create spaces where differences are celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
With a background in catering and education Michelle brings both lived experience and professional insight to efforts that drive real change.
At the heart of her work is a simple principle: inclusion is not just about presence, but about participation, voice, and belonging. Michelle continues to champion initiatives that remove systemic barriers and foster genuine connection, aiming to build communities where no one is left behind.
How do we support people
The Baytree Lifecycle
The Baytree Lifecycle is a journey to help breath life in to our communities. Through the support of our volunteers, partners, donations and money raised at events we can give hope and support to the less fortunate.
Volunteers are at the heart of what we do. Whether you’re helping in the kitchen, supporting events, or sharing your skills, your time can have a lasting impact on the lives of others in our community.
Every pound you give helps us provide free cookery classes, community events, and vital support to those who need it most. Your generosity helps us reach more people and make a bigger impact—thank you.
Our partners play a vital role in helping us support the community. Through their generous funding, resources, and collaboration, we’re able to deliver free classes, events, and services that truly change lives.
From cooking demonstrations to seasonal celebrations, our events are all about connection, learning, and having fun. Everyone’s welcome—come along, get involved, and be part of something special.