Ladies to cook up traditional tucker for bake off

Two Bunbury women will use family recipes passed down through generations when they compete in the Big Bethanie Bake Off this month.

Marjorie Ugle and Melba Wallam have been selected as finalists to cook their signature dishes at the bake off to be held at the Seniors Recreation Council of WA’s Have a Go Day in Perth on Wednesday.

Both the Bethanie Maali Social Centre members say they have been inspired by their families in their cooking, with Mrs Ugle putting her personal flare on kangaroo patties and Mrs Wallam sticking with “traditional bush cooking” of damper.

Mrs Ugle said she was excited to take part in the bake off after being inspired by her in-laws to cook with kangaroo and she had been practising in the lead up.

“It’s good to share the experience with others in the competition and exciting to win so I can share with family,” she said.

“I’m interested in inspiring others to cook with kangaroo, as it’s a healthier meat option.”

Mrs Wallam said she too had been practising by judging her cooking times and “trying to calm the nerves”.

“It’s exciting – I’ve never done anything like this before,” she said.

Students and seniors from across the State will take part in the bake off after entries were judged on creativity, appeal of the dish, nutritional content and the story behind the recipe.