A unique cooking program aims to help Childers men who may be isolated, living alone or simply struggling to master skills in the kitchen.
The initiative was instigated by past president of the Childers Men's Shed Rob Dight who said he had heard about a similar program in New South Wales that was helping men to combat loneliness and unhealthy eating habits.
“What we hope to do is bring men together who may have been experiencing loneliness after losing a partner, are looking after someone who may be ill or what have you and teach them how to cook in a friendly atmosphere,” he said.
“Participants will be able to learn, eat a nice meal and then have a brand-new recipe to take home.”
The Not the One Pot Wonder cooking classes will be held over six weeks with expressions of interest now being taken.
Cooking classes provide many benefits for men
Rob said other local organisations had jumped on board to make sure the program was a success for all involved.
He said cooking lessons would be facilitated by members of the men's shed, including a trained chef, and members for the CWA and Childers Neighbourhood Centre staff.
Guest speakers about health, nutrition and exercise will also be attending
“I thought cooking classes would be such a great thing for us to do – you don't have to be a woodwork expert, you just come along and learn something new and have a feed,” he said.
“You know, a lot of men who live alone don't cook and therefore, they are not getting nutritious food into their body which leads to an unhealthy lifestyle.
“By bringing these men together, not only are they learning new skills and eating better, but they are also creating friendships.”
The six-week course will start in March and will provide participants with basic kitchen skills plus the opportunity to try new recipes, meet new people and enjoy lunch together.
A celebration will be held at the end of the year with all the participants showing off their new cooking skills.
If you would like to sign up for the program, phone the Childers Neighbourhood Centre team on 4130 4690.
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