LFC News August 30 2017

Aug 292017
 

Dana’s monthly ‘nutrition bite’: unpack the salt

Dana Thomson, Health Promotion Officer at healthAbility, has written her second article for the website, this time on the subject of salt in processed foods. As she says: “If it’s packed, chances are it’s packed with salt. The Heart Foundation has recently launched an awareness campaign about the excessive amount of hidden salt in processed foods. The campaign website has some great tips, recipes and campaign materials. For example, the top 10 salt shockers are: 1. bread; 2. cooking sauces; 3. ready meals; 4. processed meats; 5. dips and crackers; 6. dressings and condiments; 7. pizza; 8. cheese; 9. baked goods; and 10. Aussie favourites: baked beans, instant noodles, etc.” She then goes on to give some tips for cutting down salt intake and a host of other facts. Read the full article.

Mac’s tip of the week

“With the chilly weather still upon us, hold off on tip pruning any plants that have already suffered frost damage during the past few months. As I’ve said before, damaged foliage, although brown and unsightly, will protect the growth nodes lower down. You can trim and tidy from mid September onwards.“

Read all of Mac’s tips.

What seeds to plant in September

Here is a list (see the planting guide for more detail):

Warm season veggies

Basil
Beans
Capsicum
Chilli
Cucumber
Eggplant
Gourd
Pumpkin
Rockmelon
Sweetcorn
Tomato
Watermelon
Zucchini

Perennial herbs

Lemongrass
Mint
Oregano
Sage
Vietnamese mint
Other veggies and herbs

Asparagus
Beetroot
Carrot
Celery
Chives
Coriander
Globe artichoke
Jerusalem artichoke
Leeks
Lettuce
Mustard greens
Parsley
Parsnip
Potato
Radish
Rhubarb
Rocket
Shallot
Silverbeet
Spring onions

 

The biggest planting month of the year. I try and plant all my summer veggie seeds in September – that way, if they fail to germinate, I can try again in October.

Helen Simpson has previously written ‘how to grow’ articles about many of the warm season veggies, namely: basil, chilli, cucurbits and tomatoes. Robin and Paul Gale-Baker have previously written about how to grow eggplants and capsicums. And Helen has written more generally about Spring veggie garden preparation.

Incredible Edible Todmorden

Some people have asked why we are calling our project to develop food gardening in Eltham, Incredible Edible Eltham. The answer is that we have taken our inspiration from Incredible Edible Todmorden. Todmorden is a town in Yorkshire, United Kingdom where the Incredible Edible project has been growing edible produce on public land throughout the town. The two founders of the project, Pam Warhurst and Mary Clear, both happen to be brilliant speakers. Here is a video of Pam giving a TED talk (13 minutes).

If you want to be kept in touch with developments of Incredible Edible Eltham, or contribute ideas, join our new Facebook group.

Community gardens in Darebin

Over the past few weeks, I have been talking to the various community gardens in Darebin. The net result is that 8 of the gardens now each have their own page on our website and have also been included on the map of where the community gardens are. Of the 8 gardens, 4 are open to the public and a further 2 have free membership.

Much of the material came from The Darebin Food Harvest Network website and I also met many of the people at a recent meeting of Darebin’s ‘Sustainable Food Leaders’. It makes a big difference when there is a person at Council who is clearly responsible for organising such meetings and websites. In this case, the person is Lee Tozzi, Darebin’s Sustainable Food Officer. Thanks, Lee!

All Nations Span Community House Sylvester Hive

Local food producer news

Backyard Honey, from Surrey Hills, currently have pure, raw natural beeswax for sale at $15 per kilo.

AVS Organic Foods, from Watsonia North, will be at the Vegan mini market at Abbotsford Convent on 2nd September.

That’s Amore Cheese, from Thomastown, and Yarra Valley Dairy, from Yering, will both be at MOULD – A Cheese Festival in the CBD on 2nd September.

‘Crowd harvest’ – Father’s Day

Anyone growing produce in their own backyard inevitably produces excess – more than one family can consume. Why not take some down to your local Food Relief provider and help those facing food insecurity and homelessness. Up until 5th September, you can drop your excess fruit or veggies at any of The Alphington Community Centre, CERES or Surrey Hills Neighbourhood Centre (the Facebook event provides details of opening times). Any questions, contact Cath Lyons (aka Tiny Trowel) by phone (0401 814679) or email.

Thanks for the thanks

Carol Woolcock has written in. “I would like to thank you for my prize of attending the sourdough workshop at My Green Garden in Donvale. Maria is a generous host, supplying morning tea, pizza lunch, tea, coffee and cold drinks. Anne, a sourdough guru, explained each step and walked us through making a loaf to take home, with dough ready to prove and bake at home and our own sour dough starter. I have already made a further two loaves which I took to the Eltham food swap. I understand that is another sourdough workshop scheduled for 11th October; if you are interested in ‘making your own’, I highly recommend it.“

Proverb of the month

You can’t make an omelette without breaking eggs. Meaning: One cannot accomplish something without causing adverse effects.

The earliest citation in English is a 1796 publication which translated a French quote by someone called François de Charette. Monsieur Charette led a rebellion in France and his ‘broken eggs’ were dead human beings. In 1897, The Times used the same metaphor when discussing why so many local support personnel died when the British army quashed a rebellion in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Ditto a sidekick of Stalin in 1932. And ditto again by Colonel Mustard in the 1985 film, Clue (Cluedo is called Clue in North America). So, a rather macabre history, particularly given that there is nothing actually adverse in breaking eggs to make an omelette. Incidently, three different versions of Clue were released, with three different endings: in one, Miss Scarlet was the murderer; in another, Mrs. Peacock; and in the third, all bar Mr. Green.

Joke of the week

How do you make a milk shake? Give it a good scare!

Read all the jokes.

New events

Growing and eating less common veggies

What: In this workshop they will look at how to grow them less common veggies typical to Mediterranean or Asian cuisines. You will them cook them together for some soups and snacks. At the end, you will enjoy lunch from some recipes that they have prepared.
When: Thursday, 31st August, 10am-midday.
Where: Whittlesea Community Garden.
Cost: free.
Bookings: Whittlesea Community Garden by phone (9716 3361) or email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Taste of Thomo Food Festival

What: Go and learn about Thomastown food from the actual producers. Bertocchi, That’s Amore Cheese, Plough to Plate and many many more.
When: Saturday, 2nd September, 10am-1pm.
Where: Thomastown Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Bees, beekeeping and healthy eco-systems

What: Peter Dyer, from Backyard Honey, will talk about bees, beekeeping and healthy ecosystems at the Surrey Hills Neighbourhood Centre AGM.
When: Thursday, 7th September, 2-3pm.
Where: Surrey Hills Neighbourhood Centre.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

FEASTival: Dehydrating fruits and vegetables

What: Learn the basics of how to dehydrate food easily and safely without preservatives with Pam Jenkins and Bev Robertson. Bountiful crops of fruit and vegetables can be home-dried for use all year and provide healthy snacks for the family.
When: Wednesday, 13th September, 6.30-7.30pm.
Where: Watsonia Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Companion planting for vegetables (two sessions)

What: Some plants are better together. Find out what vegetables and flowers can help boost each other’s immunity, have similar needs, and encourage helpful insects.
When: Saturday, 16th September and Saturday, 23rd September, both 10am-12.30pm.
Where: Brunswick Neighbourhood House.
Cost: $35 ($30 concession).
Bookings: Contact Brunswick Neighbourhood House by phone (9386 9418) or email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Eltham railway station wicking bed installation

What: A project has begun to develop an edible food garden on the platform of Eltham railway station, with the idea that any commuters can freely harvest the produce whenever it is ready. In the initial phase, two wicking beds will be installed. If you want to be kept in touch with developments, or contribute ideas, join the Facebook group, Incredible Edible Eltham. The wicking beds are being built on site on Sunday, 17th September, starting 9am. The builders are Paul Gale-Baker from Macleod Organic Community Garden and Paul Moreland from Bellfield Community Garden. They will need helpers on the day. Ideally, these helpers will stay the whole day but, alternatively, you could arrive and leave at any time and still be helpful. Any people who bring cordless drills with screwdriver attachments, spades or wheelbarrows will be particularly welcome! Periodically during the day, one or other of the two Pauls will give a talk about how to build wicking beds. So, if you are able to help, and/or want to see how wicking beds are built, and/or just want to say hi on the day, come along.
When: Sunday, 17th September, 9am-5pm.
Where: Eltham railway station.
Cost: free.
Bookings: Contact Guy Palmer by phone (9444 1400) or email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

T for Thailand with Lemongrass Thai Restaurant

What: Join them for a culinary journey to Thailand in a three-course banquet feast. Learn all about Thai culture and cuisine from owner, Michael.
When: Saturday, 23rd September, 6.30-9.30pm.
Where: Carlton.
Cost: $69.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Kombucha workshop – make your own probiotic drink

What: Presented by Shakuntla Gondalia. You will learn all the ins and outs of obtaining great gut health. This workshop will cover the history of kombucha, how to make it, what can go wrong with it, and how to fix it. You will also cover how to make it even healthier and more delicious with secondary fermentation flavours and health benefits such as detoxification, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and more. You will receive your own ‘scoby’ with starter tea and a pack of black tea, so you can get started brewing at home.
When: Saturday, 30th September, 6-7.30pm.
Where: Box Hill South.
Cost: $49.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Organic gardening for beginners (two sessions)

What: Want to grow your own healthy vegetables, herbs and fruits but don’t know where to start? Would you like to improve your family’s food security and increase your skills and garden productivity? Part theory and part hands-on, this workshop will help the beginner organic gardener develop the skills and knowledge to start a thriving edible oasis at home.
When: Wednesday, 4th October and Thursday, 5th October, both 10am-4pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $120.
Bookings: Trybooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Sensational sourdough at home

What: What you will learn: how to start your own sourdough starter; how to maintain your sourdough starter without lots of waste; and how to use your starter to make, shape and score sensational genuine sourdough bread. What you will get: recipes sheets describing all of the techniques used; a sample of active starter for you to continue to maintain at home; a loaf that you shape, ready to take home to rise, score and bake; and batch of sourdough that you have mixed, for you to take home and continue the process on to baking. Anne, from The Mixing Bowl, will take you from the basics of making your own starter, through to our low-knead technique, using ‘stretch and fold’, the rising process and then the baking. In so doing, Anne will de-bunk a lot of the ‘rules’ surrounding making a good sourdough loaf.
When: Wednesday, 11th October, 11am-3pm.
Where: Donvale.
Cost: $98.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

FEASTival: Chinese cooking with Jenny Chua

What: Jenny Chua will demonstrate how to make three seasonal Chinese dishes, a vegetable stir-fry, noodles and dumplings. There will be audience participation and tastings.
When: Wednesday, 18th October, 6.30-7.30pm.
Where: Watsonia Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Partnering with chooks in the backyard

What: Are you interested in finding out how to partner with chooks in your backyard to help create and manage a sustainable garden / backyard farm? Topics in this workshop will include: definitions of Free Range and what you can do in a backyard; chook tractorings – what is it and how to use one in your garden; chook tractors – design options; re-claimed materials needed to make a chicken coop/tractor; chook behaviour and habits and how to utilise them in the garden; what chooks eat and where they get it from; chook feeding systems – fodder crops / slab culture / stick culture / sprouting grains; using hay as a bedding medium; managing weeds and running grasses with chooks; using chooks to make fertiliser and compost; and predator protection. Presenter: Drew Barr.
When: Sunday, 22nd October, 1-3.30pm.
Where: Templestowe College.
Cost: $47.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Herbal teas

What: What you will learn: learn about herbal teas; understand how to grow your own tea; and learn about using native plants for herbal teas. What you will get: tastings of several of the teas. Presented by Karen Sutherland, of Edible Eden Design. Herbs have been used for centuries for health benefits and one of the most common ways of taking them was through teas. Karen will guide you through their cultivation requirements and how to use them in herbal teas. Sip your way through some teas during the class to discover some new favourites, including some Australian native herbs.
When: Thursday, 26th October, 6.30-9.30pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $45.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.

LFC News August 23 2017

Aug 232017
 

A new, exciting project in Eltham

A number of us have begun a project to develop an edible food garden on the platform of Eltham railway station, with the idea that any commuters can freely harvest the produce whenever it is ready. In the initial phase, we are planning to install two wicking beds (see ‘artist’s impression’ right). If you want to be kept in touch with developments, or contribute ideas, join our new Facebook group, Incredible Edible Eltham.

If you join the Facebook group, you will also be invited to the official opening of the garden, to be held later this calendar year. Local notables and nibbles will both be present.

The wicking beds are being built on site on Sunday, 17th September, starting 9am. The builders are Paul Gale-Baker from Macleod Organic Community Garden and Paul Moreland from Bellfield Community Garden. They will need helpers on the day. Ideally, these helpers will stay the whole day but, alternatively, you could arrive and leave at any time and still be helpful. Any people who bring cordless drills with screwdriver attachments, spades or wheelbarrows will be particularly welcome! Periodically during the day, one or other of the two Pauls will give a talk about how to build wicking beds. So, if you are able to help, and/or want to see how wicking beds are built, and/or just want to say hi on the day, email me.

More greenery at railway stations

Meg Montague has written to tell us about Merri Stationeers, a group committed to re-planting and improving the amenity of the land around the Merri Station in Northcote. She says “we have transformed the surroundings from bare gravel banks to green slopes, created a native garden (with some hiccups when a VicTrack contractor dug it up on one occasion, and sprayed and mowed it on another), planted trees, and have 4 working bees per year.” According to the Keep Victoria Beautiful website, there are also local Stationeers groups for Brunswick, Dennis, Fairfield, Northcote and West Richmond stations.

Merri Northcote

Mac’s tip of the week

“It’s still very cold outside but a great warm up activity is to start preparing your produce beds for spring. In other words, it is a good time to dig in cow manure and/or mushroom compost to add nutrients and condition your soil in readiness for planting.“

Read all of Mac’s tips.

‘Food justice’ leftovers

Nina Kerr has written in to say that she helped cook some of the Food Not Bombs Melbourne meals last week: “it’s a real fun and chilled environment where you can cook what you like or help someone else cook“. They would welcome more people to help them cook the meals and the cooking takes place at 5 Pitt Street, Brunswick, starting 2 hours before the serving times. So, that is 10.30am Mondays, 5.30pm Mondays, 5.30pm Tuesdays, and 5.30pm Thursdays. Thanks for the info, Nina!

Foodbank board member, Meg Montague, has written in to suggest some changes to the words about Foodbank Victoria, which are now: Foodbank Victoria is a major organisation whose purpose is “to source and distribute healthy food to assist Victorians experiencing hardship.” Each year, around 500,000(!) Victorians receive food that came from the Foodbank – a total of 6 million kilograms or 12 million meals each year. This food is supplied to around 500 registered charity food relief agencies around Victoria who, in turn, distribute it to members of the community. Foodbank is also funded by the Victorian Education Department to support breakfast clubs in 500 disadvantaged primary schools. And it runs the ‘Farms to Families’ program, which supports the provision of fresh fruit and vegetables direct from farmers to local families via pop-up markets.

Meg has also pointed out that The Bridge (Preston) have a free community lunch every Friday lunchtime. There are also a number of places that have cheap meals, including The Salvation Army (Preston), every Thursday at midday for $2, and Northern Community Church of Christ (Preston), every Monday through Thursday at 12.30pm for $4. Thanks for all the info, Meg!

Larry Page has told me about a number of monthly community lunches operated by Open Table: Brunswick (1st Thursday); Carlton North (4th Saturday); Coburg (3rd Friday); Coburg North (1st Wednesday); Fawkner (2nd Saturday); Fitzroy (3rd Sunday); and Richmond (3rd Saturday). Larry also told me about a number of community dinners: at Lilydale, every Thursday; and at Ringwood, every Sunday.

The web page discussing free community meals has been updated for all of the above and a map has been created of where all the meals are.

Growing tomatoes in August

In the 26th July newsletter, I said that it was ok to plant tomato, capsicum, chilli and eggplant seeds in August so long as they were under cover. Angelo Eliades apparently agrees and has blogged about growing these seeds indoors.

Local food producers in the news

AVS Organic Foods, from Watsonia North, are now a stallholder at Park Orchards Farmers’ Market.

Hanh Truong, from Warrandyte-based Poppysmack, recently guest-blogged on the Medium website.

Crop Swap Melbourne recently featured on SBS.

Joke of the week

Submitted by Rowan Loveland: What do you get when you cross a sad cauliflower with a sad melon? Melon-cauli.

As a bonus, here is the ‘2017 joke of the year’ in the UK: I’m not a fan of the new pound coin, but then again, I hate all change.

Read all the jokes.

New events

Vegan mini market

What: A new monthly market. Their aim is to present a quality assortment of local vegan owned and operated businesses on a regular basis to help vegans better support each other and to establish a stronger presence in the community. Their vegan food stallholders include 99th Monkey, Girl Made Chocolate, Good Freakin’ Food, Lady Rawsome, R.A.W by Rochelle, The Pham Sisters, Woking Amazing and Yay! Foods.
When: Saturday, 2nd September, 8am-2pm, and every 2nd Saturday of the month thereafter.
Where: Abbotsford Convent.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking master class

What: Enjoy 3 tasting size courses cooked by chef Bek McMillan, from Gourmet Living, who will demonstrate step by step. All recipes are included. Menu: caesar bruschetta; sage pesto gnocchi; and puff pastry eclairs.
When: Thursday, 7th September and Friday, 8th September, both 7-9pm.
Where: Templestowe.
Cost: $70.
Bookings: 7th September and 8th September.
Further information: their website.

FEASTival – making sourdough

What: Go along to this sourdough making demonstration by Marie from Rie’s Kitchen. Have a taste of freshly-made sourdough. Marie’s home-made jam will be available for purchase on the day.
When: Monday, 18th September, 1-2.30pm.
Where: Mill Park Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Growing veggies from seed

What: Spring is the time to propagate vegetable and herb seedlings to ensure a bumper summer harvest. Learn how easy it is to grow your own vegetables from seed.
When: Saturday, 30th September, 2-4pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: free.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Fermenting with the seasons

What: An immersive hands-on workshop exploring fermentation as a creative practice that connects us to our food, our well-being and the land around us. Learn about the principles behind the ancient art of fermentation, exploring the ways to preserve food to enrich our modern day diets. Discuss the benefits of lacto-fermented foods and how they support good gut health and well-being. Prepare your own sauerkraut and fermented seasonal vegetables using traditional dry salting and brine methods. Includes morning tea, farm lunch, tastings of home-made ferments, three jars of vegetable ferments and recipes to take home. Bring your favourite kitchen knife and chopping board, closed shoes and apron.
When: Saturday, 21st October, 10am-4pm.
Where: Gembrook.
Cost: $145.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.

LFC News August 16 2017

Aug 162017
 

Mac’s tip of the week

“With the wattles in bloom signalling a change of season from winter to spring, it’s a good time to start sowing your tomato seeds. They will still need protection from possible frosts so indoors on a window sill, or in an igloo or glass house, is ideal. Or you can use the bottom half of a soft drink bottle over a 14cm pot. Seed raising mix makes all the difference.

“Also, a last reminder to spray your peaches and nectarines to prevent curly leaf – copper spray residue needs to be present at bud burst and bud burst is pretty much now. Until next time, remember: dirty hands are good hands.“

Read all of Mac’s tips.

Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods

Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods, from Mount Evelyn, bring together the freshest local produce in a collection of gourmet salad dressings, jams, jellies, mustards, cordials, chutneys, mayonnaise, vinegars, and infused oils. Their brands include Yarra Valley Preserves, Yarra Valley Larder and Mad Dog. More than 60 outlets in North East Melbourne sell their products so there is bound to be one near you. You can also buy their stuff online. Read their Local Food Directory entry, which includes their list of outlets. Welcome, Jacqui!

A new ‘food justice’ section on our website

I am increasingly aware of both the number and the vibrancy of organisations in Melbourne concerned with ‘food justice’.

Previous newsletters have mentioned The Food Justice Truck, The Community Grocer, The Darebin Fruit Squad, Foodbank Victoria, SecondBite, FareShare and The Really Really Free Market Preston. These discussions have now been brought together in a single page on our website.

Similarly, the discussions about the food giveaways at Reservoir Neighbourhood House and Watsonia Neighbourhood House, plus the ‘food is free’ initiatives at Reservoir, Ringwood East and Warrandyte, have now also been brought together in another page on our website.

Anyhow, this week I would like to highlight some organisations who provide free community meals. These include: Reservoir Neighbourhood House; Span Community House (Thornbury); All Saints Anglican Church (Greensborough); Mill Park Baptist Church; Food Not Bombs Melbourne; and The Salt Foundation (Heidelberg West). See the page on our website discussing these meals. If you know of any others, email me.

Finally, a map (plus contact details) of all these initiatives (plus a few more) can also be found on our website.

Plants at various Metro railway stations

Following the article in last week’s newsletter, Jenny Shaw has been scouring the Metro railway network to find other stations which have planter boxes. Here are four that she has found. Thanks, Jenny!

Burnley Camberwell East Camberwell Surrey Hills

Creamy mushroom soup with rosemary croutons

Mimi Biggadike demonstrated how to make creamy mushroom soup with rosemary croutons at the last Eltham Farmers’ Market. Here is her recipe.

Local food producers in the news

PoppySmack, from Warrandyte, and Blue Pear Pantry, from North Warrandyte, and Asterisk Kitchen, from Ringwood, all featured in the August edition of The Warrandyte Diary.

Nature’s Harvest, in Hurstbridge, have released a YouTube video starring Craig Usher.

Need some cheap seeds for your community or backyard garden?

Joke of the week

As seen by Lynne Gough and Dave Richards: this is the awning of the cage of asparagus.

For those of you who were not listening to music in the late 1960s, this sign is a play on words from the original song, this is the dawning of the age of aquarius, made famous by the musical Hair. It was first released as a single by a group called The 5th Dimension (see video)but subsequently covered by many others, including Andy Williams, Cilla Black, Diana Ross, Donna Summer, Engelbert Humperdinck and The Osmonds.

Read all the jokes.

New events

Convivial Kitchen’s sourdough breadmaking demo

What: Join Kat Lavers for a slow food afternoon as she demonstrates sourdough breadmaking, from preparing the grain to baking bread.
When: Sunday, 27th August, 2-5pm.
Where: Northcote.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking master class

What: Enjoy 3 tasting size courses cooked by chef Bek McMillan, from Gourmet Living, who will demonstrate step by step. All recipes are included. Menu: sweet potato and spinach tart; spiced lamb fillets; and raspberry scones.
When: Monday, 28th August, 11am-1pm and Thursday, 31st August, 7-9pm.
Where: Templestowe.
Cost: $42.
Bookings / Further information: 28th August and 31st August.

Mooroolbark Food Festival

What: Mooroolbark’s food outlets will be offering tastings outside their venues throughout the shopping precinct; along Manchester Road, Brice Avenue and inside The Terrace Shopping Centre. 30 food outlets ranging from Italian and Chinese to Burmese and Thai; pub fare, fine dining and ‘paddock to plate’. Inside The Terrace Shopping Centre at 66-74 Brice Avenue, you’ll learn some handy tips at food demonstrations and find stalls from home-based businesses, community groups, sports organisations and local schools. Live music and roving performers will add to the atmosphere on the day.
When: Saturday, 2nd September, 10am-2pm.
Where: Mooroolbark shopping precinct.
Cost: free.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Feastival – food demonstration

What: Join in the FEASTival! Join in for a cooking demonstration and tastings.
When: Saturday, 9th September, 11am-midday.
Where: Thomastown Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Australian plants expo 2017 (two-day)

What: Organised by the Australian Plants Society – Yarra Yarra. Sales of native & indigenous plants, books on related subjects, native flower displays, environmental displays, talks, giftware and refreshments. The plant sellers include: APS Yarra Yarra growers (see plant list); Friends of Melton Botanic Gardens nursery (see plant list); La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary nursery; Natural Plantscape nursery (see plant list); Sunvalley Plants nursery; and Vaughan’s Australian Plants (see plant list). On 9th September, the talks are: at 11am, drawing & painting from nature by Hannah Noorda; and at 2pm, bonsai with Australian natives by Kevin Ritchie. On 10th September, the talks are: at 11am, drawing & painting from nature by Nancy Johnson; and at 2pm, wildlife garden seasons by Brian Bainbridqe.
When: Saturday, 9th September and Sunday, 10th September, both 10am-4pm.
Where: Eltham Community & Reception Centre.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Artisan pasta – homemade ravioli

What: What you will learn: how to make a basic egg pasta to use for filled shapes; how to make ravioli using free-form techniques, as well as molds for a more uniform shape; and how to freeze excess pasta and techniques to cook from frozen. What you get: all the ravioli made on the day will get taken home by the participants; and handouts with recipes and techniques for the pasta and the fillings. Cook like an Italian when you join them to make home made egg-based pasta and then use it to make ravioli. You will start from scratch with just some basic ingredients. The ravioli will be filled with a variety of fillings, including vegetarian options; and take on different shapes when you see how they are made free-form or using special molds.
When: Wednesday, 13th September, 10am-1pm.
Where: Donvale.
Cost: $75.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Indigenous plants for food and medicine

What: What you will learn: traditional Indigenous lifestyles and healing practices pre European settlement; traditional ways of using various Indigenous plants for medicinal purposes; and promising new research into their potential medical applications. What you will get: comprehensive course notes; and recipes and a chance to taste a number of Indigenous plant. Presented by Gaby Harris. Indigenous Australians have been using native plants and animals for tens of thousands of years as sources of food and medicine. With European settlement much of this knowledge was lost or ignored, but there is now growing interest in relearning these traditional healing methods. More research is being carried out to see how we can grow, harvest and utilise our Indigenous plants for foods, medicines, cosmetics and more. This class will introduce you to some of the well-known, as well as some more obscure, Indigenous Australian plants, teach you how they were once used, and how you can use them now. You will be able to see, smell and taste a variety of these amazing plants and learn where you can find them and how to cook with them.
When: Saturday, 16th September, 9.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Bulleen Art & Garden.
Cost: $45.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Edible weeds walk

What: What if many of the weeds in our garden were just as edible as the vegetables we tend beside them? What if some of these these free, all-too-easy-to-grow uninvited guests were so nutritionally dense that they are just about the healthiest things you could possibly eat? What if many of them also had medical traditions dating back centuries? Well it’s all true! And if you know what to choose, they also taste great. Join Adam Grubb, co-author of The Weed Forager’s Handbook, for a fascinating walk on the wild side.
When: Sunday, 17th September, 11am-1pm.
Where: Merri Creek Trail.
Cost: $25.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Vino and pizza master-matching evening

What: Learn how to match every kind of pizza with just the right wine by following the simple guidelines demonstrated by Anthony Nania.
When: Wednesday, 20th September, 6.30-9.30pm.
Where: Northcote.
Cost: $45.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Designing a productive garden

What: Ian Culbard will talk about how to design a productive food forest garden using permaculture principles.
When: Saturday, 23rd September, 11am-midday.
Where: Watsonia Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

How to make traditional moon cakes

What: It’s Autumn Moon Festival! Go along to a moon cake demonstration at Box Hill Library, followed by a Chinese cooking demonstration at Doncaster Library.
When: Saturday, 30th September, 11.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Box Hill Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

How to make sense of food labels

What: Tour a supermarket and learn how to accurately read and understand food labels and choose healthy foods that are suitable for the whole family. You will also receive a show bag with information sheets and a healthy shopping guide booklet. The tours are led by healthAbility’s qualified dietitian and open to anyone interested in healthy eating.
When: Thursday, 5th October, 9.30-11am.
Where: Eltham.
Cost: $15 (includes a healthy shopping guide booklet).
Bookings: by phone (9430 9100).
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The joy of backyard chooks

What: What you will learn: how to get started with keeping chickens in a suburban backyard; how to house and protect chooks from predators; and how chooks can be used to improve your garden and soil. Presented by Maria Ciavarella. A couple of chooks in the backyard were once a staple part of the suburban quarter acre block and their eggs a healthy part of the diet. Smaller backyards needn’t mean an end to keeping these most versatile of creatures. Join their class to find out how easy it is to keep a few hens as pets and as the ultimate garden recyclers in a sustainable household. They will cover housing, protection, feeding and varieties, as well as practical ideas on how to live harmoniously with them in your garden.
When: Thursday, 12th October, 6-8.30pm.
Where: Bulleen Art & Garden.
Cost: $45.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Vegan and vegetarian food truck event

When: Friday, 13th October, 5-10pm; Saturday, 14th October, midday-10pm; and Sunday, 15th October, midday-9pm.
Where: Preston Food Truck Park.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: Facebook event.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week
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View the complete calendar of upcoming events

LFC News August 9 2017

Aug 082017
 

Plants at Greensborough railway station

Last week, I briefly mentioned one unsung hero, Julie. This week, I’m going to mention another. His name is Graham Osborne and he is a ticket officer at Greensborough railway station. Four years ago, he started a 100m garden running parallel to the main track (see first picture). It mostly comprises drought tolerant plants, such as yuccas, pelargonium, salvias, euphorbias and various succulents, and Graham still maintains it. There are also planter boxes dotted around the platform (see second picture).

Darebin Backyard Harvest Festival

The Darebin Backyard Harvest Festival is mainly about tours of selected home gardens. This year it will be on 18th-26th November and the gardens will encompass Moreland as well as Darebin. To register to open your home garden, complete the online application form. For more information, contact Lee Tozzi by phone (8470 8392) or email. Garden registrations close on 1st September.

Yarra Valley Gateway Estate

I went to Yarra Valley Gateway Estate in Coldstream earlier this week and and owner, Tony Spurling, kindly pointed out which local food producers they are now stocking. By my count, it is an impressive 10: Australian Harvest / Bio Grape; Cunliffe & Waters; Healthybake; Kookaberry Strawberry Farm; Montrose Meats & Smokehouse; Unforgettable Products; Yarra Coffee; Yarra Valley Dairy; Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods; and Yarra Valley Tea Company. That puts them fourth in the shops’ league table.

As well as selling others’ local produce, Yarra Valley Gateway Estate are a major producer in their own right, growing strawberries, capsicums & basil, running a small beef herd, and making wine & strawberry products.

Although Coldstream is only a small place (population around 2,500), it actually has a large number of food producers, including: Adams Farms; Australian Harvest / Bio Grape; Coldstream Dairy; Cunliffe & Waters; Domaine Chandon; Garlic N More; Maroondah Orchards; Napoleone Brewery & Ciderhouse; Oakridge Wines; Pimpernel Vineyards; Punt Road Wines; Rochford Wines; The Functional Beverage Co.; Tokar Estate Winery; and Yarra Valley Tea Company.

Other local food producer news

The Mushroom Shed’s mushroom kits can now be purchased at The Natural Food Market in Montmorency.

The Really Really Free Market Preston recently featured in The Weekly Review.

Joke of the week

What did the green grape say to the purple grape? Breathe dammit, breathe!

Read all the jokes.

New events

Plant-grow-eat-repeat

What: This workshop will cover tips, tricks and ideas that improve the success of food gardening at home. Ian Culbard (formerly of CERES) will facilitate. Take a notepad, garden sketches, seeds/produce to share, and your favourite reference books/magazines/websites.
When: Wednesday, 9th August, 7-9pm.
Where: Watsonia Neighbourhood House.
Cost: Gold coin.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Horticulture therapy – why we need more school gardens

What: Gardening is an engaging activity for children of all ages and abilities. Join them in visiting 3 special school settings where students enjoy the recreational, therapeutic and pre-vocational benefits of gardening. Starting at Waratah Special Developmental School, car pooling to & from Austin Hospital, and finishing at Croxton School, Northcote. Speakers: Margaret Sulikowski (Waratah Special Development School); Ellen Regos (Cultivating Community); Steve Wells (Austin Health); Richard Bellemo (school garden designer and landscaper); and Basil Natoli (teacher and horticulturist).
When: Friday, 11th August, 9am-3.30pm.
Where: Bellfield.
Cost: $30 including lunch ($120 for teachers).
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Asian cooking class (thermomix)

What: Go along to this class with a team of thermomix enthusiasts. Experience and taste a variety of dishes from across a range of Asian cuisines. The recipes include: lemonade; non-fried fried rice; Thai red chicken curry; chicken and sweet corn soup; roti bread; coffee pannacotta with chocolate sauce; and coconut pudding.
When: Friday, 11th August, 7-9pm.
Where: Blackburn North.
Cost: $22.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Edible weeds walk at The Patch

What: Weeds. Many spray them, some feed them to their pets and, to most, they are simply a nuisance. Those in the know, however, understand that weeds can be a nutritionally dense, medicinal and tasty guests in the garden. Join weed-expert Monique, from Joe’s Market Garden, for an edible weeds tour around campus to learn about all about the wonders of weeds and the best foraging tips. Afterwards, there will be a cook-up using some of the weeds that you foraged on the tour!
When: Thursday, 17th August, 3-6pm.
Where: La Trobe Community Garden, Bundoora.
Cost: free.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Fermenting workshop

What: What you will learn: gut health – why our gut and digestion plays such an integral role in our overall health and wellbeing; how to make sauerkraut and kombucha; easy steps that are achievable at home even if you have never fermented before; and choose your favourite spices and make your own sauerkraut. What you get: a starter kit including, your very own ‘scoby’, so you can get started brewing at home; and take home sauerkraut, scoby, recipes and instructions. Go along to learn about all things gut health plus a beginner’s guide to fermentation and what the benefits are to including this ancient food as medicine in our modern lifestyle. You will make your own sauerkraut, step by step, from scratch. They will also run you through how to make kombucha at home and give your own scoby to take home. Includes a glass of kombucha on arrival. Bring your favourite kitchen knife and a medium sized jar (500ml) for your sauerkraut.
When: Saturday, 19th August, 1-3pm.
Where: Eltham.
Cost: $30.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Melbourne Winter Donut Fest

What: Think hot chocolate, mulled wine, hot jam donuts, coffee, plenty of outdoor heating and cheery festoon lighting. The industrial warehouse venue will be partially inside and outside. They even have an official Donut Fest beer – a sessional amber ale with a touch of caramel malt developed by Kooinda Boutique Brewery. 36 vendors. Sweet vendors: Doughnut Time; St Gerry’s; Lukumades; Nuts About Tella; The Hungary Boy; Honey Dee; Ostrich and the Egg; Dip’d; Dandee Donuts; Uncle Donut; Jamm’d; Goldelucks; Krumbs; Penny for Pound; Jamm’d; Senor Churro; Holy Bombolina; and Downtown Donuts. Savoury vendors: Giant Springs; El Jefe; Hangi Boys; GF Gnocchi Bar; The Real Jerk; Twisted Mac; Yo India; and Ron’s Handburger. Beverage vendors: Manchuria Bar; Kooinda Brewery; SquareKeg; Gageroads; Stomping Ground; Odyssey Craft Brewing; Two Birds Brewing; Those Girls; Wimmera Hills; Welshman’s Reef; Koffee Kartel; D’lighted Mixology; and Chai Walli.
When: Saturday, 19th August and Sunday, 20th August, both 11am-8pm.
Where: Batman Royale, Coburg North.
Cost: $11.
Bookings / Further information: Eventbrite.

Winter garden party

What: They will harvest and cook some of their winter veggies and share a warm lunch next to an open fire.
When: Sunday, 20th August, 11am-3pm.
Where: Produce With A Purpose, Lower Plenty.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Everything you need to know about the paleo diet

What: Looking for a new (or a millennia-old) diet strategy? Here’s your primer on the paleo diet. Lindy Cook will explain the diet and give you a chance to taste some of her Paleo recipes. Find out why the paleo diet is so popular and go home armed with information and recipes for you and your family.
When: Wednesday, 23rd August, 6.30-7.30pm.
Where: Box Hill Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The effects of food on children’s behaviour

What: This presentation will cover the effects of problem food additives and natural food chemicals on behaviour, health and learning, for both children and adults. Presenter Jenny Ravlic is experienced in FAILSAFE, dairy-free and additive-free living with her family of boys (now all young men), solving many issues from rashes on faces and asthma coughs to disruptive behavioural problems and motor tics. Jenny will help you identify the nasty additives on food labels and highlight some safe commercial food alternatives.
When: Thursday, 14th September, 6.30-7.30pm.
Where: Box Hill Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

FEASTival – My Kitchen Rules

What: Go along to see a cooking demonstration by Karen and Ros from My Kitchen Rules reflecting one of the many cultures of Lalor. Taste a sample of the finished dish and take home a copy of the recipe to try with your family.
When: Saturday, 16th September, 10.30am-midday.
Where: Lalor Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Healthy productive compost and worms

What: What you will learn: the importance of compost for soil health; how to fix common composting problems; and setting up and looking after a worm farm. Presented by Maria Ciavarella. Learn how to make great compost, the essential ingredient for a thriving and healthy garden. You will also look at worm farms and Bokashi as other options. You will also be shown how to make a DIY worm farm using recycled products.
When: Thursday, 28th September, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $45.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Fermentation – an introduction to lactofermented fruit

What: What you will learn: all about lactoferments; improve your culinary knowledge; and how to ferment your own fruit. What you will get: recipes to take home; and samples of what you make. If you have tried your hand at sauerkraut and other vegetable ferments, fermenting fruits might be the next step in your fermenting journey. In this workshop, Monique will introduce you to next level fermenting. You will be sampling some fermented salsa/relish variations, discussing the subtle differences between fermenting low sugar vegetables and high sugar vegetables. You will be walked through the process before making your own batch to take home and ferment on your bench top.
When: Saturday, 7th October, 3-5pm.
Where: CERES.
Cost: $55.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.

LFC News August 2 2017

Aug 022017
 

Mac’s tip of the week

“It is time to prevent codling moth on your apples, pears and quinces, especially if you have had infestations in the past. Use pheromone traps, trappit glue or corrugated cardboard wraps around the trunk. Perhaps spray with Dipel or Success. Act now!“

Read all of Mac’s tips.

Watsonia Neighbourhood House – another admirable ‘food is free’ initiative

Watsonia Neighbourhood House give away fruit, vegetables and bread to anyone who wants it. I recently visited them and talked with coordinator (and newsletter reader) Lucie Holden.

The bread comes from Bakers Delight in St Helena. It is collected every Wednesday evening and made available on Thursday (and Friday, if there is any left). Some of the bread is also sent to Reservoir Neighbourhood House for them to give away.

The fruit and vegetables come from Monty Fresh in Montmorency. The timing is unpredictable so availability is advertised on Watsonia Neighbourhood House’s Facebook page.

The neighbourhood house is also a drop off point for Diamond Valley Food Share, a voluntary organisation which ensures that emergency food parcels are available to needy people in the municipality of Banyule. Donations of food are collected each week.

Thanks for all the info, Lucie!

These sorts of initiatives only happen if there is someone who is willing to volunteer to pick up and prepare the food. In Watsonia’s case, the unsung hero is someone called Julie. Well done, Julie!

Finally, if you think about it, the potential for this sort of initiative is enormous: we are currently talking about 1 bakery, 1 fruit & veg shop and 2 neighbourhood houses but, across North East Melbourne, there are around 200 bakeries, 200 fruit & veg shops and 50 neighbourhood houses.

Make Health Stars work for you

After last week’s newsletter went out, Choice magazine emailed me to say that they have decided to start a campaign entitled Make Health Stars work for you.

Good uses in the garden for ash

Duang Tengtrirat: “We heat our home 100% with wood in the fireplace so we have a lot of ash. Ash is alkaline and can balance out the acidity in the soil. I put mine lightly under all fruit trees and they seem to like it. I DO NOT use it for blueberries because they love more acidic soil. Someone told me that it is similar to potash so high in potassium too. Ash deters crawling pest like snails and slugs. Unfortunately nothing stops the millepedes! ?Because we have so much ash, I add it to my compost as well.” Thanks, Duang!

Phil Smith: “Ash contains a spectrum of trace elements, is rich in potassium (which is good for flowering) and is low in both nitrogen and phosphorous. As such, it can be used on phosphorous-sensitive native plants such as waratahs, banksias and grevilleas. However, it is also highly alkaline and, as such, should only be used in small quantities – say, a handful per square metre. In addition, a few handfuls can sweeten an acidic compost heap.” Thanks, Phil!

Want some milk kefir grains?

Vicky Shukuroglou, from Eltham, has some milk kefir grains to spare. If you want some, email Vicky. First come, first served.

Local food producer news

Local, new season olive oil is now available. As Peter Fullerton from Panton Hill Estate Olives says: “a part of our identity is to sell only oils from the current season. That is when our oils are at their best, and this is the only way we want them encountered/used/enjoyed!“. Panton Hill Estate Olives are selling their oil at Eltham Farmers’ Market on the 4th Sunday of each month and at Hurstbridge Farmers’ Market on the 1st Sunday of each month. In addition, Hildebrand Grove, from Cottles Bridge, are selling their oil at Eltham Farmers’ Market on the 2nd Sunday of each month or at St Andrews Market every Saturday.

Bolton Street Deli & Liquor, from Eltham, have been shortlisted in the 2017 Northern Multicultural Small Business Awards in the ‘Business Excellence’ category. Paleta Artisan Popsicles, from Diamond Creek, have been shortlisted in the ‘Most Promising New Business’ category.

Proverb of the month

The proof of the pudding is in the eating. Meaning: the real value of something can only be judged from practical experience or results, not from appearance or theory.

The proverb dates back to at least 1605, when it appeared in William Camden’s Remaines of a Greater Worke Concerning Britaine. Note that the pudding in question wouldn’t have been from the sweet trolley; rather, The Oxford English Dictionary describes the medieval pudding as “the stomach or one of the entrails of a pig, sheep, or other animal, stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, suet, oatmeal, seasoning, etc, and boiled.” In other words, haggis.

Read all the proverbs.

Joke of the week

What do you call a fake noodle? An impasta.

Read all the jokes.

New events

The great marmalade taste off

What: Have you made any marmalade lately? Bring a jar down and let everyone taste and vote for your favourite spread. Requirements: must be homemade marmalade and use local homegrown produce where possible. This event will happen at the same time and place as the monthly food swap.
When: Sunday, 6th August, 10.30-11.30am.
Where: Montmorency Primary School.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking master class

What: Enjoy 3 tasting size courses cooked by chef Bek McMillan, from Gourmet Living, who will demonstrate step by step. All recipes are included. Menu: smoked chicken and basil bruschetta; duck porcini ravioli; and apple tart.
When: Thursday, 10th August, 7-9pm.
Where: Gourmet Living, Templestowe.
Cost: $42.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking master class

What: Enjoy 3 tasting size courses cooked by chef Bek McMillan, from Gourmet Living, who will demonstrate step by step. All recipes are included. Menu: spiced cauliflower soup; rosemary chicken medallions; and caramel cream cheese tart.
When: Friday, 18th August, 7-9pm.
Where: Gourmet Living, Templestowe.
Cost: $42.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Native culinary plants of Whitehorse

What: Karen Sutherland, from Edible Eden Design, designs and installs permaculture gardens. She specialises in bush food gardens for schools and groups as well as teaching about these and on a wide range of edible gardening topics. Discover Karen’s top ten indigenous bush foods of Whitehorse. Learn how to grow and use a range of these herbs, smell and taste them and learn from someone who has grown and promoted bush herbs in urban gardens for many years. Take home a free edible plant for your garden.
When: Tuesday, 29th August, 7-8pm.
Where: Whitehorse Centre, Nunawading.
Cost: free.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Ultimate cheese and wine matching masterclass

What: When you combine the expertise of a master cheese maker (Giorgio Linguanti, from That’s Amore Cheese) together with that of a food and wine matching expert (Anthony Nania), you have the recipe for a really informative masterclass. Together they will show you how to serve a variety of cheeses perfectly and match them with the right wine styles. Go and enjoy the flavours and textures of cheeses paired with specially selected wines.
When: Thursday, 31st August, 6.30-9.30pm.
Where: Vinorium Wine + Food, Northcote.
Cost: $42.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Fundamentals of beekeeping (four sessions)

What: This course is designed to provide new beekeepers with both the practical skills and the background knowledge to start beekeeping with confidence. The program encompasses Langstroth, Flow and top bar hives and is suitable for all styles of beekeeping. No previous experience is required. The course includes three classroom sessions (Wednesday nights) plus a weekend hive opening exercise during the day. All sessions are interactive and include hands-on skill building exercises. Included in the course fee are a comprehensive handbook and a textbook. The course fee is $150. In addition, participants have to become members of The Beekeepers Club which costs $70 pa.
When: starting Wednesday, 6th September, 7.30-10pm.
Where: Doncaster.
Cost: $220 (includes annual membership).
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Artisan pasta – fettuccini

What: What you will learn: how to make and knead egg-based pasta dough; use traditional pasta machines to roll and cut pasta; and how to use selected vegetables to make colourful fettuccini, including vegan options. What you get: fettuccini to take home to cook on the day or dry or freeze for future use; and a handout covering the techniques covered in the workshop. Learn how to make pasta like an Italian! You will use age-old techniques to make a classic egg pasta, to be transformed into delicious fettuccini. Then, using the basic pasta-making technique, you will incorporate colourful vegetables to make fettuccini in a variety of colours. You can also opt to make your fettuccini suitable for vegans. Your pasta will be ready to take home to cook for a lovely meal. Instructions on how to dry the pasta or freeze it for future use will be given. Easy sauce recipes will also be discussed.
When: Tuesday, 12th September, 10am-12.15pm.
Where: Donvale.
Cost: $55.
Bookings: / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Royal Melbourne Oktoberfest

What: Royal Melbourne Oktoberfest will see lederhosen-clad partygoers shouting Prost from the top of their lungs in 2017! The Royal Exhibition Building will play host to a traditional Oktoberfest event, with German oompah bands, folk dancing, on-stage comps and an atmosphere that is guaranteed to be electric. There will be 50 different imported German beers on offer, plus cider, wine, schnapps, etc. The event will also feature numerous German caterers serving up traditional meals such as pork hocks, schnitzels, bratwurst and other German sausages, brathendl (roast chickens), pretzels and German pastries.
When: Saturday, 23rd September, midday-11.30pm.
Where: Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton.
Cost: $37.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Planning your summer veggie crop

What: Go along for tips and ideas on planting your summer veggie crop. Learn how to improve soil and discover what, when and how to plant seeds and seedlings. Have all your summer veggie growing questions answered and participate in a hands-on planting demonstration.
When: Saturday, 23rd September, 2-4pm.
Where: Hawthorn.
Cost: free.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The environmental chef with Ryan DeCoite

What: What you will learn: about the food industry; making environmentally sustainable food choices; and how to prepare your own low-impact lunch. What you will get: lunch; and sustainable recipes. In a world full of amazing indulgent recipes and glossy cooking television programs, ‘the environmental chef’ encourages participants to understand where their food comes from as well as creating awareness of what effects food industries have on the ecological environment that sustains us. Learn about the food industry with practical and interactive examples, create your own environmentally friendly lunch and take home ecologically sustainable recipes and information. The workshop will combine cooking with environmental consciousness. It is suitable for participants aged 12 and over with an interest in the environmental impact of where their food comes from.
When: Wednesday, 27th September, 10am-3pm.
Where: CERES.
Cost: $70.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Lebanese cooking demonstration

What: Learn the secrets of making a good baba ganoush and a wonderful halloumi and pomegranate salad from culinary teacher and owner of My Lebanese Kitchen Cooking School, Bernadette Cheet. There will be tasters for all, as well as new Arabic library items to borrow.
When: Thursday, 28th September, 6.30-7.30pm.
Where: Brunswick Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.