In the lead-up to the agriCULTURED festival of gastronomy, Tasmanian not-for-profit St Lukes has hosted a free workshop to help families plan healthy, easy meals that won’t take a bite out of their budget.
Around 50 participants, including young kids, came along to the hands-on workshop at St Lukes’ Launceston wellness hub, led by Harvest Market Manager and co-host of cooking show Left Off the Map, Rhys Hannan.
St Lukes Head of Community Engagement Nikki Long said there was a growing appetite in the community for help in preparing simple, nutritious meals – particularly for young mouths.
“For time-crunched families at the end of the day, it can be a real challenge to prepare a meal that’s quick, healthy, tasty and importantly, with the rising price of groceries, affordable,” she said.
“We’re thrilled to host chef Rhys ahead of agriCULTURED, teaching people how to use fresh, local produce across multiple meals to get the most bang for their buck and avoid food waste.
“Food literacy plays such an important role in empowering individuals to make informed dietary choices and setting the next generation up to make good choices.
“Fostering healthier communities and enhancing overall wellbeing is all part of our vision to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet.”
Quote from chef Rhys Hannan:
“Eating healthy, locally grown, seasonal produce benefits the whole community, and I always relish the opportunity to show people how to get the most value, as well as the most flavour and enjoyment, from their meals.”
Quote from Libby McKay from agriCULTURED and Eat Well Tasmania:
"There’s almost too much advice about how to eat and what to buy. Eating well on a budget can be simple – start with what’s in season because seasonal produce is often local, more affordable, nutrient dense and packed full of flavour.”
Quote from executive producer of agriCULTURED Sarah Blacklock:
“agriCULTURED celebrates the connection between food, culture, and community. This workshop is designed to promote food literacy and assist individuals to make informed dietary choices, fostering healthier communities, and enhancing overall wellbeing”.
agriCULTURED runs from 31 July to 3 August 2025 at venues across Launceston, Tasmania’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
The full program and tickets are available at www.agricultured.com.au.
ENDS