That means that every day of the year in Victoria, 74 people are diagnosed with diabetes and, of those Victorians, almost 90 per cent are living with type two diabetes, which is linked directly to issues such as poor diet and lack of exercise.

And one in four Victorians over 25 has pre-diabetes, diabetes or, worse still, does not actually know they have the condition.

Minister for Health Jill Hennessy said more needed to be done to reduce the prevalence of diabetes in Victoria.

‘Diabetes does present a significant public health challenge – it can often lead to problems such as heart disease, stroke, vision loss, kidney disease and nerve damage.

‘Melbourne is a city of amazing food and wine but we must be mindful of the importance of eating healthily and being active which can reduce the chances of developing type two diabetes.’

The figures were highlighted by Diabetes Australia – Vic at the newly re-opened award-winning Melbourne restaurant Maha.

Maha chef Shane Delia has embarked on his own health journey, shedding 10 kilograms and re-opening Maha with healthier menu options.

‘I work long hours and late nights and, like many Victorians, have a young family and neglect my own health and well-being.

‘I was not looking after myself well enough and I decided to take action.

‘It’s nice to start a new year in a positive way.’

Joining Shane at the launch were Jason Pearce and Mignonne de Witt.

After realising his significant risk of developing type two diabetes and losing his best friend to a diabetes-related heart attack at the young age of 22, Mr Pearce decided to take control.

He has now lost a staggering 35 kilograms by training six days a week and raises vital funds for the cause through charity runs.

Ms de Witt was 38 when she was diagnosed with type two diabetes.

Her family had a history of the condition and her father had severe heart problems.

She ate poorly and did little exercise.

Ms de Witt has since lost weight so she can go back to wearing clothes from her teenage years.

She goes to the gym three times a week and takes insulin injections.