Bendigo is pushing for global recognition of its thriving food culture.
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The City of Greater Bendigo wants to become the first city in Australia to be recognised by UNESCO for its gastronomy.
COGB will talk with producers, farmers, beverage makers, food manufacturers, restaurants and the broader community to develop the bid.
Mayor Margaret O’Rourke said the application would be based on how the region embraced a sustainable future, encompassing everything from healthy food programs to primary producers.
“Our bid will be based on four key themes: Aboriginal heritage, sustainability, health and wellbeing, and innovation and diversity,” Cr O’Rourke said.
UNESCO is an agency of the United Nations with a goal of increasing global peace through social justice, human rights and international security with international cooperation on educational, science and cultural programs.
COGB is creating an advisory group to help prepare the application and is seeking assistance from members of the community.
Masons of Bendigo owner Sonia Anthony was confident Bendigo had “a really good chance” at a successful bid.
“What I love about food is that it connects so many people within the community,” Mrs Anthony said.
“Gastronomy encompasses so many things, the bid will look at our indigenous history, what’s happening within the field of innovation, for not just food but beverages too.”
“People want to embrace and connect with what’s going on within their region and the community needs to support the bid to put Bendigo on the map,” Mrs Anthony said.
“If successful it will be the feather on the cap for the region.”
The Woodhouse Bendigo head chef and owner Paul Pitcher said if the bid was successful it would benefit the region.
“Within our region there is so much produce, from wineries through to olive growers and this all comes under the category of gastronomy,” Mr Pitcher said.
“We have an amazing wine growing region and for us as restaurant owners it’s another step forward for all of us to improve and get behind it to ensure we highlight our region.”
A launch event for the bid will be held at 1:30pm on Tuesday August 14 at Peppercorn Farm.
For more information or to register your interest in becoming part of the advisory group please visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gastronomy.
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