Romsey’s Sandra Chestnutt and Ron Jackson (pictured) are enjoying the benefits of a food-sharing initiative that is rolling out across the Macedon Ranges.
The pair are part of Casserole Club, through which volunteers, such as Ms Chestnutt, prepare an extra meal for a neighbour who is older and/or unable to cook for themselves.
The program not only provides a healthy home-cooked meal but helps isolated people establish new friendships.
Some cooks opt to deliver meals to diners, while others, like Ms Chestnutt, make the sharing of food a social occasion.
More than 150 meals have been shared since Casserole Club was launched at Romsey and Lancefield in October last year. Macedon Ranges council will hold a celebratory cook-up at Romsey community hub from 11am-1pm on July 16. The event will include group cooking sessions and a social meal.
Macedon Ranges Health dietician Susan Whitelock will talk about the importance of healthy eating for seniors.
Mayor Jennifer Anderson says the Casserole Club is a fantastic way to meet new people in the community by sharing food.
‘‘If you want to find out more, learn some new skills in the kitchen, feast with friendly locals and take home some fantastic recipes, then this social cook-up is the place to be,’’ Cr Anderson said. Bookings close July 10.
Details: 5422 0233 or www.casseroleclub.com.au.
