From seafood chowder to pizza, Buderim seniors are learning how to make delicious, nutrition-packed meals thanks to an innovative program funded by Sunshine Coast Council.
Former professional chef and hospitality educator, Michael Edwards, cooked up the idea after noticing that some fellow members of his Buderim Probus Inc Club could benefit from skills development in the kitchen after the loss or illness of a partner who was previously responsible for cooking.
The club was one of 91 organisations to receive minor grants funding in May 2019 when it was awarded funding of $1,940 to help cover operational costs for the course, including purchase of ingredients.
Applications for council's latest round of minor community grants are now open and Mr Edwards shared the success of his club's cooking program to encourage other not-for-profit organisations to apply for a grant of up to $2000.
Each fortnight 20 members of the Probus Club Inc gather to learn cooking tips and techniques from Mr Edwards.
He shows how to cook a variety of dishes from the same base ingredients, meaning participants can enjoy nutritious food without spending too much money or time in the kitchen.
"For example we might start with a slow-cooked vegetable casserole and I'll then demonstrate how that dish could form the base of a curry or that by blending the same vegetables you could make a soup," Mr Edwards said.
"I wanted to teach the group the correct technique for making dough so we made pizzas and I then showed how the same dough can be modified to make buns or bread,'' he said.
"You've got to entertain people and get them thinking about things other than the run-of-the-mill so I show some theatrical dishes as well – for example we made a tarte tatin that was flambéed with brandy.
"The feedback has been really positive and the classes are so popular that we have a long waiting list,'' Mr Edwards said.
Applications for council's latest round of minor grants are now open and Community Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay encouraged other not-for-profit organisations to apply.
"A total of $100,000 in funding is available this round to help support not-for-profit community groups get their projects off the ground,'' Cr McKay said.
"Groups can apply for up to $2000 to deliver one-off projects, events and activities that provide community benefit.
"In our May 2019 round, our grants helped groups host community events which included a film night, a seniors' fun walk and forum, and a street party. Activities such as these are integral in building strong, inclusive and supportive communities which are key aims of our 2019-2041 Draft Sunshine Coast Community Strategy.
"Funding was also awarded for community facility upgrades and equipment purchases, all of which help ensure community members can continue to come together to enjoy sporting, cultural and other pastimes together."
Eligible local community groups can apply for funding for projects in one of seven categories:
• community development
• community events
• community facilities
• cultural development
• cultural heritage
• economic development; and
• sports, recreation and healthy living.
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Applications close November 4. Groups will be notified of the outcome of their application by mid-December.
