The Bush Foodies

In this episode of Paddock, Plate & Planet, we speak with two passionate advocates for bush foods: Peter Cooley, a proud Bidjigal man and CEO of IndigiGrow, and Mindy Woods, Bundjalung woman, celebrated chef, restaurateur and 2022 MasterChef finalist.

Peter & Mindy share how their own journeys with bush foods have been inseparable from learning about culture, community & Country. Both speak about the role of their elders in passing down knowledge — and how food can carry memory, identity and connection.

They discuss the growing market for bush foods, and why this growth must centre Aboriginal leadership. For Peter & Mindy, it isn’t just about bringing native ingredients into kitchens, but about ensuring Aboriginal people are the ones growing, harvesting & profiting from them.

The conversation also touches on their collaboration in Byron Bay, where they are working together on a native foods garden & restaurant that will showcase Aboriginal food culture and create new ways for people to connect with Country through food.

This is a story of culture, knowledge & sovereignty — and a hopeful vision for a food future grounded in care.

Read more about Peter Cooley and Indigigrow here: Macdoch Foundation | Philanthropic foundation

Read more about Mindy Woods and Kalkalla on Country here: Mindy Woods Karkalla Byron Bay

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