Food of the Southern Forests

Last week I attended a book launch for Sophie Zalokar’s Food of the Southern Forests.  How does this relate to the hidden gems of the southern forests, you ask? Several reasons, actually. 

Sophie Zalokar is a renowned food writer and chef, who in 2005 moved to Pemberton with her partner Chris and two children and launched Foragers Field Kitchen and Chalets.  This, in itself, is a hidden gem, nestled in the pristine farmland that surrounds Pemberton, placing Ms Zalokar in prime location for sourcing produce fresh from the farm gate.

This genuinely southern forests produce is the reason for the recently formed ‘Southern Forests Food Council’ (SFFC) – a SuperTowns initative funded by the State Governments Royalties for Regions program.  In less than a year, the SFFC has developed a brand for consumers to look out for which denotes that produce has come from this region, and has been working hard at promoting the variety and quality of the produce globally.     Genuinely Southern Forests produce = hidden gem(s). 

The venue for the book launch was the Old Coolroom at Newton Orchards in Manjimup, a wooden clad structure designed to keep fruit fresh in the days before air conditioned coolrooms were invented.  It was a befitting location for the book launch, as the history of places like these are featured in the book as an exhibition of the adaptability, dedication and stoicism of the producers of the Southern Forests.  With the pristine growing conditions of the Southern Forests, coupled with the knowledge and hard work of our producers, it is no wonder the produce is as good as it is.

This brings me to the book - Food of the Southern Forests – a deserving and valid tribute to the genuinely southern forests produce, and the result of more than two years worth of dedication and hard work.  This book showcases hidden gems marvellousely, through the unique photographic style of Craig Kinder, to the essence of it – the recipes. 

Congratulations to everyone involved. 

For book sales, please visit the Southern Forests Food Council or purchase the book online via:

http://uwap.uwa.edu.au/collections/sophie-zalokar/products/food-of-the-southern-forests

 

To sample genuinely southern forests produce, look out for the branding in-store, stay tuned to the SFFC website and facebook page to see what events are coming up to showcase the produce and/or visit the Manjimup Farmers Market – every second Saturday in Manjin Park, Manjimup.  

Pictured above: Nicole Giblett - Newton Orchards, Craig Kinder - Photographer, Sophie Zalokar - Author and Bevan Eatts - Chairperson of the Southern Forests Food Council.