6 September, 2011

The Tree of Life, Samoan-style

It’s easy to see why Samoans call the coconut tree “the tree of life”. Not only do these graceful trees dot the coastlines of the white-fringed islands of Samoa, swaying gently in the warm breezes and lending shade, they’re also an invaluable supply of food, fuel and housing for the Samoan people. On my recent … Continue reading →
16 August, 2011

Mudgee Comes To Town

Kim Currie is delighted. A few weeks ago, she discovered quince trees growing on the vineyard orchard at the Lowe estate at Mudgee. “I love quinces and had no idea they were there,” she told me on Sunday at the Mudgee Wine & Food Festival at Balmoral, Sydney. “I decided to slow-bake them and bring … Continue reading →
9 August, 2011

W.A.’s Black Diamonds

Alain Fabregues is excited. The highly-awarded owner-chef of The Loose Box restaurant just outside Perth W.A, is presenting a Master Class at the 5th Mundaring Truffle Festival alongside two other top Aussie/French chefs, Philippe Mouchel and Emmaneul Mollois. “We have more truffles than customers this year. They might look like animal droppings but they taste … Continue reading →
2 August, 2011

Blood Sugar

It’s hard to believe that the slim, youthful-looking celebrity chef Michael Moore, has diabetes. As he writes in the introduction to his new book, Blood Sugar. .“My doctor said I was the most unusual person to become a diabetic. I was very fit, active and healthy; I never smoked nor was I a big drinker. … Continue reading →
27 July, 2011

La Famiglia Signorelli

If you ever find yourself walking around the wharves at Pyrmont, Sydney, you’re likely to come across a very arresting sculpture. Titled “Life From A Suitcase” and cast in bronze, it depicts Biaggio and Fina Signorelli and their seven grandchildren.  The sculpture is a gift from the Signorelli family to celebrate migration and is imbued … Continue reading →