Bermagui Preschool presents…

The Moodji Futures Dinner & Panel Discussion - with Costa Georgiadis

Friday 10th May, 5pm
Bermagui Surf Life Saving Club
Tix $85

Long time patron and routine visitor to the region, Costa Georgiadis of ABC’s Gardening Australia is excited to return to Bermagui for this evening of local food and in-depth discussion.

MC’d by regenerative cattle farmer, rural journalist and former ABC South East presenter, Sophie Longden, the event is a fundraiser for the preschool’s urban & Indigenous agriculture project - Moodji Farm - which has recently celebrated its fifth birthday.

“This year’s discussion will focus on the role circularity has in enhancing community resilience as we move forward into socio-economic uncertainty and climate change”, says event convenor and Moodji Farm manager, Dan Bakker of Eat Dirt Permaculture.

“Panellists will also share their personal views on the role passion, creativity and a sense of purpose plays in their co-creating of a prosperous future for our region”, adds Dan.

Karen Charlton is a Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Wollongong and has a 4-year fellowship from the Australian Research Council for a project to develop a more equitable, healthy and sustainable food system in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region.

One aspect of her project is how urban agriculture can be supported to meet the needs of local residents. Karen also works on projects to improve food security in vulnerable groups and has a passion to teach university students about sustainable food systems.

Karen, who grew up in Botswana and spent many of her adult years in South Africa, has published over 250 scientific articles and has worked with colleagues in Ghana, Zambia, South Africa, Fiji, Italy, UK and USA.

Joining Karen and Costa in conversation is Carlin Stanford, acting director for the Illawarra & South East Region of Disaster Recovery NSW. Having prior worked in the Australian Army and in remote region post-war recovery, Carlin’s current role entails her coordinating post-disaster recovery and in cross-sector agencies liaison.

Despite having been directly impacted by the Black Summer and 2003 Canberra bushfires and having witnessed nature at her most powerful, she is continually amazed by the strength of communities. Carlin believes that her current work, “is also an endless tale of impact from disaster, and growth. How do we flourish in a world where we are at risk? One word, community”, says Carlin.

As per past sell-out dinners, a three-course menu featuring local providore and Moodji harvest is being set by long time Moodji supporter and chef, Kelly Eastwood.

Commencing at 5pm guests will be welcomed by the 28 strings of David Crowden’s Guitarama who will offer sweet syncopation, warm harmonies, and unforgettable melodies drawn from their own original tunes, as well as from Rodrigo y Gabriella, Django Rheinhardt, the Cat Empire, and other Brazilian/Spanish classics.

A silent auction will be convened for attendees to further support Moodji Farm with volunteer opportunities available should folk seek alternative means to attend.

Costa will also attend Moodji Farm the day prior (Thursday 9th May) where preschoolers, families and volunteers will enjoy a day of play in the patch. Those curious to meet ‘the human hedge’ are encouraged to contact Dan.

This event is also proudly supported by Bermagui SLSC, Bermagui Hotel and the University of Wollongong.

For more information contact Dan Bakker:

m] 0427 746980

e] eatdirtpermaculture@gmail.com