Djinda Ngardak Long Table Luncheon: Albany community invited to cultural feast

WA not-for-profit group Prepare Produce Provide is inviting the Albany community to a long table lunch to celebrate and sample the work of Djinda Ngardak participants.

The annual Djinda Ngardak community program brings together youth from around the State for a week of workshops and cultural activities.

Nutrition, health and Indigenous pride are a focus of the program and Djinda Ngardak culminates with a culinary treat as culture is shared through food.

“We have some of Australia’s top chefs and talent sharing their time, a beautiful venue and we have the support of producers with fresh, seasonal ingredients from across WA,” PPP co-founder Cath MacDougall said.

“It has been amazing to work with the passionate team in Albany, local elder Vernice Gillies, educators and schools across WA.

“The Albany community are dedicated to supporting Aboriginal youth through food and culture. It is a privilege to work with them.”

Schools involved with the program include Great Southern Grammar, Albany Senior High and Mt Barker Community College, and Djinda Ngardak empowers and inspires First Nations students to seek positive future life options in education, training and employment.

“This program has given me the opportunity to work with amazing chefs, feel supported and open up what is possible in life,” PPP youth ambassador Brittney Hills-Pearse said.

“Travelling, cooking and working with elders and kids across WA.”

A four-course lunch paired with non-alcoholic drinks will be served at Irrerup Mt Adelaide and before dining guests will join Menang custodians Vernice Gillies and Larry Blight on an hour-long cultural walk exploring the coastal lookout.

Performances by dance troupes will be a feature of the event and live music will be provided by Bilya Beat.

Tickets for the luncheon, which will take place on November 26 at Irrerup Mt Adelaide from 11am-2.30pm, are $180 per person and can be bought via Humanitix.