Foodies will flock to Armidale on Saturday 19 September for the inaugural UNE Fermentation Festival, celebrating the science, craft, and nutrition behind one of humanity’s oldest biotechnologies.
Organised by the University of New England in partnership with The Welder’s Dog and UNE Life, the day will feature a series of hands-on workshops followed by a fermentation-inspired canapé dinner in the evening.
“Fermentation has been around for centuries and is the centrepiece of gut health, nutrition, sustainability, and food culture,” says Associate Professor Gal Winter from the UNE School of Science and Technology.
“As a microbiologist and nutrition educator, I am passionate about showcasing the real-world application of food science to the broader community in a fun and engaging way.”
During the day, local food businesses and nutrition educators will deliver workshops at UNE covering everything from sourdough to sauerkraut, revealing the living science behind some of your favourite foods and beverages.
“Whether you’re interested in learning the secrets behind sourdough, how to make your own kombucha, or wanting to take your vegetables to the next level, there is something for everyone,” says A/Prof Winter.
“We are thrilled to have a range of wonderful local businesses on board to help the community master the art of fermentation, including The Goldfish Bowl, Yin Yang Kombucha, and Black Mountain Vinegar Works.”
In the evening, The Welder’s Dog will host a fermented feast at their brewery in Beardy Street, featuring a canapé-style dinner created by the team at UNE Life, beer tastings, and a talk from Head Brewer, Patrick Bolton on the craft of brewing and wine-making.
A/Professor Winter will also provide valuable insights on fermentation through the ages and how we’ve gotten to where we are today.
“We are so excited to see this idea come to life and bring the community together,” says Jono Schumack from The Welder’s Dog.
“It will be the perfect opportunity to enjoy an evening out with friends, experience some new flavours, and learn more about how your favourite brews end up in your glass.”
The festival will feature flexible ticketing options, providing attendees the chance to attend the workshops, the dinner, or the full-day experience.
“The beauty of this event is that you don’t have to attend the whole day to get involved,” says A/Prof Winter. “If you’re attending the workshops, gather your friends and family and celebrate your new skills in the evening together.”
Secure your ticket and find out more about pricing, times, and locations here.
KEY INFO:
- WHEN: Saturday 19 September
- WHERE: UNE Armidale Campus (Day) and The Welder/s Dog Brewery, Armidale (Evening).
- WHO: Anyone interested in fermentation, food, or nutrition, or looking to learn new skills in the kitchen.
WORKSHOPS:
- Fermented Vegetables: Learn the science behind kimchi, sauerkraut, and lacto-fermented vegetables with Kai Allison from UNE Nutrition.
- Sourdough 101: Take a deep dive into the world of sourdough, culture science, and baking with the team from The Goldfish Bowl.
- Kombucha Culture: Explore the ancient craft of living, probiotic beverages with Yin Yang Kombucha.
DINNER: Celebrate the science in every sip and bite at a fermentation-themed canapé dinner at The Welder’s Dog.
TICKETS:
- Workshops only
- Dinner only
- Full-day pass
