By Brendan Rees
These kids have been cooking up a delicious storm.
Rolling up their sleeves and donning an apron were eight junior master chefs from Tooradin Primary School who visited La Casa Sawtelli’s restaurant on Monday, 7 May to build on their cooking skills.
They joined kitchen specialist Fiona Berkholz and the school’s principal Zania Cope, where they learned how to cook authentic wood-fire gourmet pizza with the help of chef and Sawtellis owner Rob Cauzzo.
Sawtellis restaurateur, Brigitte Dawson who is also a mural artist had visited Tooradin Primary School in November last year to help paint some murals that celebrate life in the coastal village.
While at the school, Ms Dawson was blown away by the students growing their own vegetable garden as part of the school’s Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program.
“Every student was so engaged and so obviously interested in cooking, and eating their dishes, and then cleaning up their own kitchen afterwards,” Ms Dawson said.
Ms Dawson teamed up with Mr Cauzzo from Sawtellis in hosting a Legends of Rock evening on 20 April to help boost funding for the school’s cooking program.
A portrait of the great Elvis Presley was auctioned for $740 with Ms Dawson and Mr Cauzzo chipping in their part to bring the total amount to $1000 – which was all donated to the program.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to show our support for an extraordinary program that not only benefits the school, but the whole Tooradin community,” said Mr Cauzzo.
Ms Berkholz said the school was grateful for Sawtelli’s generosity and support.
“We have a very well equipped kitchen, however when it comes time to purchase more expensive items, we rely heavily on fundraising and donations,” she said.
“Rob and Brigitte’s gift will go a long way to making our program even better, and we are truly grateful.”
