Ed’s Letter
IF THERE WAS ever a time for new beginnings, 2021 is it: a new decade, a fresh start, and with that, a determination to make every moment count. Interestingly, it was a conversation with Neil Perry that helped shape our thinking for this issue. In a time of transition from the businesses he built, he exuded energy and positivity mid-pandemic, pouring passion into his new venture, Hope Delivery. A charity backed by the Rockpool Foundation, it has created more than 300,000 meals for those in need.
You can read all about this inspirational idea on p 100 and cook the recipes to match.
The word ‘hope’ continued emerging, with colleagues, friends and industry stalwarts adding to these layers, and it felt like a fine word to build upon for this issue.
Our longtime collaborator Colin Fassnidge started a soup kitchen, cooking meals for workers in need throughout the pandemic, often using produce donated from our partners, such as butcher and his fellow columnist Anthony Puharich. He then partnered with our drinks guru Mike Bennie to leave care packages across the city. It inspired both of their regular columns this month, and a collaborative events partnership was born (watch this space!). Mark LaBrooy of the Three Blue Ducks saw his world change around him as the group’s restaurants and new ventures went into lockdown. At the same time, he became a new father, and found his attitude to food and cooking changed for the better as a result. He shares some heartfelt recipes on p 52. Talented restaurateurs and entrepreneurs Maurice Terzini, Rinaldo Di Stasio and Chris Lucas helped each other through recent months with friendship, food and wine – and usually virtually, as these mates from different states become vocal advocates of the challenges facing the hospitality world. Their story on how food and friendship helped them carve a new future is on p 60. And I’m sure for many of us, the Covid/Christmas carb loading may need addressing, and Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall is here to show you how to be healthy deliciously (p 94), likewise Kirsten Jenkins’ clever wholesome brunches (p 44). And of course, there is always time for naughtiness and fun – our riff on a cultural icon with our lamington remix, on p 116, offers this in spades.
We continue to dream of travel, be it close to home or further away. Because in any time of challenge, friendship, food and good times forge new beginnings. We hope this issue provides a welcomed entree into a new decade, the balm you need, and the inspiration you are seeking for a hope-filled year ahead!