A local produce and cooking demonstration at the Narrabri Show this year has been hailed as a great success by organisers and audience members.
Walkey award winning journalist and author, Louise FitzRoy, travels Australia holding ‘From Paddock to Plate’ demonstrations which showcase local produce, farmers and chefs.
Louise was excited to be invited to the Narrabri Show this year and says she is already planning an appearance in 2016.
“It was so worthwhile, I met so many people and learnt so much about the region and the food that’s produced here,” she said.
“I think the audience learnt a lot too so it was a well rounded experience.
“I am definitely coming back next year, we’re already planning the next show, it will be a little bit different but we’re keeping that a surprise.”
The event, which was a completely new addition to the show program, was introduced and organised by incoming Show president Cheryl Pawley.
Cheryl wanted to showcase the strong agricultural production in the region.
“I feel our local producers aren’t promoted enough,” she explained.
“We are a strong wheat and
cotton farming region but there are still many cattle, sheep and lamb producers in the area as well.
“The livestock industry can be very involved and technical with the genetics and production methods.
“We have some of the very best producers in our shire so we should showcase that.”
Cheryl would like to see the ‘paddock to plate’ demonstrations continue at the show, and also plans on introducing cotton and wheat information displays.
She believes the concept could also extend beyond the show.
“We should have farmers’ markets in Narrabri, people need to learn where their food comes from and how to grow their own food,” she said.
Local farmers involved in the demonstrations included Richard Busby, Phillip Kirkby, Lyn and Bill Guest, John and Liz Manchee and Janet Dampney.
Local chefs included Todd Manton from The Namoi, Cynthia Smith from the Nandewar, Ken from Thai Home and Wayne from Wayno’s Way at The Tourist.
Dishes ranged from Thai Beef Salad to Tandoori Beef Wraps and Home Style Lamb and Vegetables.
Sarah Andrew and Jo Westman from local fresh fruit and vegetable store Paradise Fresh prepared a juice and coconut bliss balls.
Andrew Amos from Moree-based Woolaway wines provided the wine accompaniment for each dish.
Louise FitzRoy was initially inspired to start running ‘From Paddock to Plate’ demonstrations in 2008 as a way to raise the profile of Australian agriculture.
She believes the initiative helps communities understand more about food production both in their local area and more broadly.
“I really enjoyed the questions from the crowd about food production, the audience was very interested and engaged,” she said.
“Because the concept is so unique and different, I don’t think people realised what was going on so next year it will be bigger and better because people will remember us. I’d like to thank the Show Society and the community for having me and really looking forward to coming back next year.”