Share a Neenish with a friend on 22 September.

Celebrate Neenish tarts on their own day.

Neenish Tarts hold a special place in the hearts of many people. 22 September is a chance to share your love of the Neenish with others.

In 2020, Neenish Hunters raised money for Beyond Blue this Neenish Tart Appreciation Day (NTAD). We will be raising money again in 2021 and will detail the beneficiaries as it is announced.

Why 22 September?

The history of the Neenish Tart is a bit of a mystery. There are stories of Ruby Neenish and her lack of cocoa. There are spelling variations that perhaps allude to the heritage of its creators. (Check out the history here).

One thing we do know is the first known mention in print.

On Sunday 22 September 1895, the Sydney Sunday Times printed an ad for the New South Wales Fresh Food and Ice Company Ltd. Not only sellers of ice, they were purveyors of the realest game, unequalled poultry and exquisite pastries. We see the Neenish Tart listed amongst cakes and dishes such as sponge cakes, finger sandwiches, Swiss rolls and glazed tounge. Signed off by H. Pateson, the ad gives us the oldest known mention of the famed Neenish Tart.

The Symbology of NTAD

Two toned icing can be seen as a symbol of harmony and balance that we strive for in our lives and across society more broadly.

The start of Spring (the vernal equinox) is 22 September. A symbol for rejuvenation, new life and renewal. It is the turning of the seasons and marks the day of equal sunlight and darkness, in much the same way that the Neenish Tart shows an equal balance of pink and chocolate icing.

Is it a coincidence that NTAD falls on the day which symbolises joy and new life? Or the connotations of balance and harmony? Yes. 100% coincidence, but it is a nice story, right?

What can I do to play my part?

Neenish eaters:

  • Share a Neenish Tart with a friend.

  • Repost NTAD on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook to share the love.

Neenish makers:

  • Becomes an official supplier of NTAD Neenishes (and Neenish adjacent goods).

  • Promote Neenish Tart Appreciation Day in your store.

  • Help us raise money for our Beyond Blue campaign.

  • For more details for bakeries to participate, go to this page.