Learn how to prepare simple meals in a series of free workshops this April.

During Youth Week, 18 – 30-year-olds are invited to three evenings of cooking and creativity at SAGE Gardens, Moruya.

The Be Well Eat Well workshops explore various aspects of food preparation, including discovering seasonal foods, bulk cooking for leftovers, ways to enhance second-day dishes, and a final session focused on pickling and creating snacks using leftovers.

Council’s youth team has partnered with SAGE to run the workshops. Council’s youth officer Michaela Burtenshaw said no experience was needed.

“It’s all about upskilling, feeling confident in the kitchen and discovering easy healthy recipes,” Ms Burtenshaw said.

“The workshops will be great for those becoming independent, entering that next stage of life away from the family home as well as people who are time poor or working a lot.”

Fresh produce from SAGE Farmers Market will be used in the cooking demos over the three nights.

“Everyone gets a free meal and can take home some leftovers and recipes from the workshops,” Ms Burtenshaw said.

“Cooking with fresh food that’s in season is not just for the oldies; we want to show young people on a budget they can too.”

SAGE education and events coordinator Sandra Makdessi will lead the workshops along with other SAGE volunteers and Council’s community development team.

“We hope everyone can make three nights in a row, but if you can only make one, still sign up,” Ms Burtenshaw said.

“It’s our first-time running workshops like this; we would love to extend the program to school-age kids.”

The Be Well Eat Well workshop series runs from 5.30pm – 8.30pm, April 16-18. Book a spot online. The series is thanks to funding from Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal. More workshops will be run throughout the year. Keep an eye on Council’s events page to find out what’s on.