The City of Greater Bendigo is seeking expressions of interest from community members who would like to be considered for the newly formed Creative City of Gastronomy Advisory Committee.

City Director Strategy and Growth Bernie O’Sullivan said Bendigo was designated the first Australian UNESCO City of Gastronomy in October and the next step was to create an Advisory Committee and attract people with a passion for the region’s food, creativity and culture.  

“This designation recognises the diversity of our city and the broader region’s food and beverage culture from Indigenous food systems, local producers to innovations in sustainable agriculture and creative education programs,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“This is the beginning of an exciting journey to celebrate our creativity and the history and culture of foods from this region under the prestigious UNESCO name.

“The purpose of the Advisory Committee is to provide advice and strategic representation to Council concerning the Bendigo region’s designated status as a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and the diverse projects and activities as a City of Gastronomy.

“The members of the Advisory Committee will also contribute to the long-term vision of how the City and the community can work together and help build the region’s reputation as a Creative City.

The four-year action plan includes:

Working with Traditional Owners to develop a calendar of the Six Seasons of plants and animals recognised by the Dja Dja Wurrung Collaborating with the other Creative Cities in Victoria (Melbourne, Geelong and Ballarat) and the 35 other Cities of Gastronomy around the world Identifying regional food precincts and food trails Bringing world-class food and culture events to Greater Bendigo

Expressions of interest for the Creative City of Gastronomy Advisory Committee are to be submitted by Friday January 17, 2020. To register your interest, please visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gastronomy.