We’re thrilled to introduce a new project we’re cooking up: Feast of Cultures!
Feast of Cultures brings multicultural community members together to share stories, celebrate culture, and connect over a meal. The project will feature a variety of activities, including cooking classes, community events, gardening, social gatherings, and family-friendly sessions.
We’re also on the lookout for avid home cooks who’d love to share their favourite recipes as part of our Tuesday Community Lunch.
Want to deliver a workshop or get involved?
Are you from a multicultural background and keen to share your favourite cultural recipes or traditions?get in touch with Monisha at monisha@cch.org.au or on 5472 4842.
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Multicultural community members, along with their families and friends, are warmly invited to join these sessions.
FREE Recipe Cards are available from Castlemaine Community House reception or download below.
– – workshops & Events – –
Romanian Inspired Community Lunch
Tuesday 23 – 12:15PM – Castlemaine Town Hall
Enjoy a Romanian-inspired community lunch as Christina prepares traditional Sarmale — one of the most iconic dishes in Romanian cuisine.
The name comes from the Turkish word “sarma,” meaning wrapped or rolled, reflecting the dish’s rich cultural journey across regions and generations. Adapted in Romania using cabbage leaves and slow-cooked for deep, comforting flavour, these delicious stuffed rolls are a beloved symbol of warmth, tradition, and shared meals.
$10 (Full) / $7 (Concession)
Making Ojos de Dios
Tuesday 23 June – 4:30PM to 6:00PM
Ojos de Dios (Pronounced: Oh-ho deh Dee-os), is a traditional craft form with roots in Latin American cultures.
Viviana is a Colombian psychologist and textile artist, residing in Central Victoria with her young family. Viviana enjoys creating with her hands both on her own and alongside her children. As a way to slow down, connect, and bring a sense of calm into everyday life. “For me, crafting is not only creative, but also a gentle form of meditation.”
Join Viviana for a fun, engaging and creative activity.
Croatian Chicken Soup for the Soul
Tuesday 23 June – 5:30PM to 7:00PM
Join Eirena (Ell), for a very hands-on workshop, in cooking a wholesome, hearty Croatian Chicken Soup perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Born in Split, Croatia, Ell is sharing her beloved family recipe for traditional Croatian chicken soup, lovingly passed down from her mama, Zora. More than just a comforting meal, this nourishing soup reflects the heart of Croatian family culture – where food is deeply tied to hospitality, togetherness, and care. Across Croatia, chicken soup (pileća juha) is a staple of Sunday lunches, celebrations, and times when loved ones need comfort or healing.
$5 suggested donation
– – Past workshops – –
Yoga Nidra
Thursday 16 April – 5:30PM to 7:00PM
Castlemaine Community House
Women from multicultural backgrounds are invited to come together to relax, connect, and experience Yoga Nidra with Nina.
Thai Inspired Community Lunch
Tuesday 28 April – 12:30PM to 1:45PM Castlemaine Town Hall
Enjoy a Thai-inspired Community Lunch prepared by Duang and good friend,Waiyalet Puttrasri . The menu includes fragrant Thai green curry served with brown rice or noodles, a fresh and zesty Som Tum carrot salad, and a sweet tapioca pudding with seasonal fruit for dessert.
$10 (Full) / $7 (Conc.) – Kids under 12 eat free
School Holiday Program: Potluck lunch and Kite Making for Multicultural families
Thursday 9 April – 11:00AM to 1:00PM
Castlemaine Community House
You’re invited to join us for a potluck lunch and a fun kite-making activity! This is an opportunity to come together, connect, and learn more about the Feast of Cultures program.
Mexican Cooking with Mark
Tuesday 14 April 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Castlemaine Community House
Explore delicious Mexican recipes with local resident, Mark. This hands-on workshop is a chance to bring your curiosity, an open mind, and a genuine desire to learn and celebrate the rich cultures that make up our community.
Indian Fijian Inspired Community Lunch
Tues 24 Feb – 12:15PM – Castlemaine Town Hall
Enjoy scrumptious chicken curry and delicious dhal, served with fluffy rice and fresh salad, followed by an indulgent dessert. Hear about the culture and history behind the food, and learn about the Girmityas of Fiji.
$10 (Full) / $7 (Concession)
Paella Making Workshop
Thur 19 Mar – 5:30PM – Community House
Come and join José on a tantalising journey as you learn to make paella. Bring along your curious selves, an open mind, and a keen desire to mingle and chat. Culinary skills are optional. Places are limited and registration is essential!
Cooking Italian with Claudio
Wednesday 27 May – 5:30PM to 7:30PM
Claudio will bring a taste of Rome to Castlemaine – sharing simple, traditional dishes he grew up with — the kind of food that’s meant to be enjoyed together.
Claudio will be cooking cacio e pepe and supplì and will tell us more about these dishes on the day.
Join us on Wednesday 27 May to learn a traditional Italian dish that celebrates delicious fresh ingredients and brings people together.
Spanish Inspired Community Lunch
Tuesday 26 May – 12:30PM to 1:45PM Castlemaine Town Hall
José will be turning up the heat on the paella – pronounced pah-ey-yah! Choose from a vibrant vegan paella packed with seasonal vegetables and tofu, or a rich chicken and chorizo paella for the omnivores, before finishing with a decadent crème caramel.
$10 (Full) / $7 (Conc.) – Kids under 12 eat free
Castlemaine Community House is a partner in the Feast of Cultures program with Mount Alexander Shire Council, Healthy Loddon Campaspe, Dhelkaya Health and Regional Partnerships Loddon Campaspe.
** Images for promotional purposes only. **