Published on Tuesday 30 May, 2017

Lively lunches and healthy lifestyles are menu favourites at our Wallsend Community Hub in Newcastle.

Under the guidance of Support Worker, Wayne Ferguson, the Hub’s regular cooking classes teach people how to prepare nutritious meals in a supportive, social setting.

“From shopping for ingredients and picking fresh vegetables and herbs from our gardens, to learning new recipes and perfecting old favourites, we all have a lot of fun,” said Wayne.

“Everyone enjoys the practical side of preparing meals but we also teach people about good food choices, portion control and how to handle food safely and hygienically.”

“We also encourage teamwork with setting tables and serving meals to ensure everyone enjoys their dining experience.”

“We have some great cooks at the Hub. Alex is terrific and his Koenigsberg Meatballs are always a big hit. We also have some talented up and coming baristas including Nathan and Anthony.”

“Some people prefer set roles. Two of our young men like to be known as the ‘Onion Men’ and they’re the go-to men when it comes to chopping onions.”

Ring’ after suggesting Almond Squid Rings for lunch so preparing the squid is my job now,” laughed Wayne.

Toni Hunt, Support Facilitator at the Hub, said the cooking classes were important for developing interpersonal and independent living skills.

“The classes foster friendships and build confidence — and we all get to share a delicious, healthy lunch prepared by some very good cooks,” said Toni.