Aunty Beryl’s recipe for success

“Food is more than something we put on a plate, it connects us to our families, our Country and our identity.”

The words of Aunty Beryl Van-Oploo, OAM, author of an extraordinary collection of recipes, stories and cultural knowledge, to be published in her book Aunty Beryl’s Cookbook: Heartwarming recipes and stories of First Nations Food, later this month.

Described as a culinary leader, Aunty Beryl is widely admired for her contribution to community development, cultural education and Aboriginal hospitality training.

Over the years, she has mentored hundreds of young people, empowering them with skills, confidence and pride through culturally grounded training and food programs delivered at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence and beyond. Her new cookbook captures this legacy, not just as a collection of recipes, but as a powerful record of cultural knowledge and community storytelling.

This cookbook is my way of sharing the stories and flavours that have shaped my life and the lives of so many young people I’ve worked with. I’m so proud to bring this to the community,” she said.

Grant Cameron, the chief executive of The National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, said Aunty Beryl had shaped the lives of generations of young people through her leadership, her care and her deep commitment to culture.

Traditional and contemporary recipes

This cookbook is a celebration of her impact and an opportunity for everyone to learn from her wisdom and her incredible recipes,” he said.

The book brings together more than four decades of Aunty Beryl’s work nurturing community, mentoring young people and championing the richness of Aboriginal food culture. It features traditional and contemporary recipes, stories from Country, and insights into the importance of culture, connection and passing knowledge to the next generation.

To purchase the book, go to: https://geni.us/auntyberyl