Those interested in the oldest living culture in the world and cooking will be excited to hear about a series of cooking classes to be held in the coming months.
Stevie Thorpe, a proud man from the Gunnai and Gunditjmara people, will be leading a series of three cooking classes in Pipemakers Park, in collaboration with Melbourne’s Living Museum of the West (MLMW).
‘Dreamtime Cooking’ will be a chance for participants to learn about cooking with indigenous ingredients, as well as the chance for participants to share recipes from their own cultural background in a blend of culinary traditions.
“We are going to showcase these foods to the community, we are going to be connecting with different cultures and sharing from our hearts,” said Mr Thorpe.
“I think food is best shared when it comes from the heart, it is a process where we receive sustenance on many levels.
Mr Thorpe has years of experience working in restaurants and completing apprenticeships in cooking, but he feels he has learnt the most from his family.
“Growing up I went fishing with my uncles and my grandma, she provided the food in such a loving and nurturing way. When the food is cooked like that it tastes better.”
Those who register for the sessions can expect a day of fun, tasty food and a greater awareness of native foods.
Mr Thorpe said he will be using different leaves, fruits and nuts.
“We want to provide good food so people feel good in their bodies, emotionally and mentally, when you eat good food you feel good.”
Museum committee member and organiser Melba Marginson said she hopes to develop projects that will bring multicultural and First Nations people together in meaningful ways.
“MLMW expects this food project to become a base for sharing knowledge and for generating new projects in the Park.”
Jennifer Pittorino
