Australian Bush foods come in two categories – the traditional usage by Aborigines and contemporary usage by cooks and chefs.

This talk is about contemporary usage which can be incorporated into any kitchen. As bush spices and fruits gradually become available more and more people are starting to experiment with these foods. Maria has written a booklet containing exciting and easy to make recipes which will accompany this workshop. Many bushfood species which are popular today originate in rainforests making it hard but not impossible for gardeners on the Tablelands to grow these species. Maria will talk about how to grow and propagate many of the more popular species and then how to use them in some wonderful dishes.

Maria Hitchcock OAM

Maria is a retired High School teacher who holds a Bachelor of Arts (UNE) majoring in Botany and a Masters in Professional Studies (Aboriginal Studies) Hons. as well as a NSW Teachers Certificate and the ZMP Zertifikat in German (Göttingen). She is a Life Member of the  Australian Plants Society, former leader of the ANPSA Correa Study Group and Waratah & Flannel Flower Study Group and holds the National Correa Collection in her private botanic garden which is registered with BGANZ. She published Correas in 2010. She is a regular ABC New England North West Radio Garden presenter.