TAFE NSW Hospitality students explored cooking with indigenous ingredients, connecting with Bundjalong country as part of Reconciliation Week celebrations at TAFE NSW Wollongbar.  

Proud Bundjalong woman and owner of Karkalla Byron Bay, Mindy Woods, shared her signature dish, introducing students to indigenous ingredients and how to use them in everyday food.   

Ms Woods says the beautiful produce found in the bush seamlessly integrates into all types of food that students can learn to use in their cooking.    

"Indigenous food is food for all Australians; connecting indigenous and non-indigenous people over food is a powerful way to share stories and grow together," said Ms Woods.  

'Reconciliation is about coming together; learning about the incredible food that surrounds us is an important part of moving forward, and I'm proud to be a part of that."  

Students assisted Ms Woods in the kitchen to make Karkalla curry, learning how she creates unique flavour combinations using seasonal indigenous produce.     

TAFE NSW Commercial Cookery student Bradley Browning says Mindy demonstrated a completely different side to cooking using ingredients not typically seen in a commercial kitchen.    

"Mindy showed us how easy it is to substitute locally sourced seasonal indigenous ingredients to create uniquely Australian flavours in non-traditional foods," said Mr Browning.  

"Her personal story and connection to country have really inspired me to learn more about how I can use indigenous produce in my cooking."     

TAFE NSW Head Teacher Hospitality Mary Allan says it's incredibly important for students to explore and make meaning of Aboriginal culture and history as part of their studies.   

"The opportunity for students to connect with Aboriginal culture through food and learn real-world skills to actively engage with country really speaks to the meaning of reconciliation," said Ms Allan. 

"We're thankful to Mindy for sharing her knowledge and helping to enrich our student's learning experience." 

For more information on Hospitality courses, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 

Media contact: Kelly Lawler, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, mobile 0408 481 864