Forage & Feast Edition - Celebrating the impact of migration on our food culture
Start your morning with an engaging Biznet Breakfast featuring a panel of inspiring Central Highlands foodies, growers, and producers. Part of Forage & Feast: A Taste of Summer in the Central Highlands (January 13 – February 16), this event dives into the stories, experiences, and passions behind the region’s food scene.
Facilitated by celebrated food writer Richard Cornish, the panel showcases:
Bishal Khanal (Sede Café): Originally from Nepal, Bishal has spent 16 years in Australia, carving a niche in hospitality. Starting as a kitchen hand, his journey led him to work in top resorts and hotels across the country, blending Indigenous ingredients into modern cuisine. Now the proud owner of Sede Café in Ararat, Bishal celebrates his heritage by crafting innovative dishes infused with Nepalese flavors, herbs, and spices, sharing his culture through heartfelt storytelling and culinary expertise.
Gilava Pour (Exotic Bazaar): Born in Irian and deeply connected to her Middle Eastern roots, Gilava moved to Australia with a mission to bridge the gap in authentic, accessible Middle Eastern flavours. She founded Exotic Bazaar to inspire Australian home cooks with bold, traditional tastes, transforming everyday meals into culinary adventures. Her products reflect her heritage and passion for connecting people through the power of flavour.
Mara Ripani (Village Dreaming): A champion of sustainable living, Mara co-founded Village Dreaming, a permaculture farm and Orto Cooking School in Blampied, Victoria. Drawing from her Italian heritage and a background in environmental work, she has a deep passion for growing and preserving food, permaculture, and community connection. Alongside her partner Ralf and their daughters, Mara invites others to learn, share, and celebrate the joys of sustainable living.
Whether you’re looking to spark new ideas, gain fresh insights, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, this event promises to inspire, inform, and delight.