Birds of a Feather special guest

Local culinary celebrity Annie Smithers (supplied).

Local culinary celebrity Annie Smithers will be the guest speaker at next week’s Birds of a Feather gathering in Woodend.

As one of Australia’s most well-known chefs and someone who has led the way with the paddock to plate philosophy, Ms Smithers has lived and worked in the region for over 25 years.

She creates award winning fare for her Trentham restaurant, Du Fermier, from the produce from her garden and runs her popular cooking masterclasses from her home in Lyonville.

Ms Smithers’s name is synonymous with wholesome, French homestyle cooking.

Birds of a Feather lunch organiser Belinda Brain said she is a local legend, cook, farmer and author.

“She has been blazing a trail unapologetically for decades and we are delighted to be welcoming her as our final guest for 2023,” Ms Brain said.

Birds of a Feather lunches are held in venues across the Macedon Ranges and are organised by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Program.

They offer an opportunity for adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex to come together in a safe and affirming space, to share stories and feel a sense of belonging.

Birds of a Feather takes place next Tuesday, December 5, at 12pm at the Victoria Hotel, Woodend.

Entry is free and meals and drinks are at bar prices, with RSVPs essential. Transport from Kyneton is available, as is financial support if cost prevents you from attending.

Details: www.trybooking.com/CNFWF, belinda.brain@scchc.org.au or 5421 1666.