A Taste of Turkiye – Multicultural Lunch with Friends 

Last Thursday, the Pialba Community Hall came alive with colour, culture and connection as the Local Learning Network (LLN) teamed up with CAMS to host a truly special “Multicultural Lunch with Friends – A Taste of Turkiye.”

Weeks of thoughtful preparation by our amazing LLN volunteers Cath, Ange, Viv and Rose transformed the hall with vibrant posters, ribbons, flags, and handmade hot air balloons – creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere that made everyone feel at home.

🎤 With Gavin as our joyful MC, guests enjoyed Turkish music, a cultural slideshow, and a fun round of Turkiye Bingo with themed prizes adding an extra layer of delight to the day!

🍽️ The menu was nothing short of a feast – lovingly designed by our wonderful volunteer and Turkish powerhouse, Emet Coban:

Amuse Bouche: 

• Mucver

Main: 

• Beef Kofta layered with potato and eggplant in a rich tomato and cheese sauce

• Rice Pilav, Turkish Salad,

• Tzatziki, and Garlic Turkish Bread

Dessert:

• Finished off with Walnut Baklava, Vanilla Ice Cream, and a Pistachio Crumb

 A heartfelt thank you to our kitchen dream team: Mark, Nat, Kim, Shi, Larissa, Karen, Andrea, Paul, Karen, Cath, Judy and Vivian – your effort, care and flavour were felt in every bite!

💬 We were also privileged to hear from Lois Kelly, Link Worker with our Social Prescription team, who spoke beautifully about the importance of connection, and how support is available for anyone feeling lonely or isolated.

Days like this remind us that community, culture, and kindness are what bring us together. Thank you to everyone who joined us – we can’t wait to see you at the next Lunch with Friends!