On Saturday 17 May and Sunday 18 May you can be part of two delicious and thought-provoking events being presented by chef Angie Prendergast Sceats. One at The Valley Table, Kangaroo Valley; the other at Bay and Bush, Woollamia.
Chef Angie is inviting guests to sit down to a meal that reimagines the role of the plate in protecting our environment. Eat the Invaders is a multi-course dining experience showcasing a bold, solution-oriented menu centred around local invasive species. Angie, known for her ethical approach to catering, describes the event as “a call to action served on a plate.” She says it is equal parts feast and conversation:
“Guests will dine on rabbit, wild goat, carp, and local foraged weeds—ingredients more often seen as ecological threats than culinary opportunity. Prepared with native herbs and spices and an ethos of zero waste, each dish is designed to tell a story about land care, sustainability, and the role food can play in environmental restoration.”
A four-course lunch will be served al fresco in two striking locations. On Saturday 17 May in the kitchen garden of Angie’s own venue, The Valley Table in Barrengarry, Kangaroo Valley. The other, on Sunday 18 May, in the bushland surrounds of Bay & Bush, Woollamia, Jervis Bay. As seating is outdoor and communal, Angie hopes guests will feel encouraged to connect with fellow diners, explore ideas around sustainable food systems, and most importantly, eat well. She says:
“Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to biodiversity in Australia. The truth is, many of them are also incredibly good to eat. This is about rethinking the problem—and inviting people to consider being part of the solution.”
For Saturday 17 May, 1pm at The Valley Table, Barrengarry click here to book
For Sunday 18 May, 1pm at Bay & Bush, Woollamia click here to book
When I spoke to Angie I asked her what connection, if any, her events have with the recent ABC program of the same name. She told me that while her Eat the Invaders is not in any way affiliated with the TV program, it did give her the impetus to develop ideas she’s been thinking about for 10 years.
Angie’s original inspiration came in 2015 during a trip across America. She went to a sushi restaurant where they only served invasive seafood. She found the whole concept novel, fascinating and thought-provoking. Fast forward 10 years, Angie is living in Kangaroo Valley surrounded by farmland and farmers who have people on their land shooting feral animals.
She sees this as a problem ripe for a different perspective. Take goats, as an example. Angie informs me that 91% of goat meat, from goats killed here in Australia, is sent overseas. Not surprising that she wants to know why aren’t we eating it here, given that goat is the most widely eaten meat in the world, and she finds goat meat beautiful, even preferring it to lamb. Carp is another prime example of an invader on Angie’s radar, commenting:
“I see a lot of people fishing for carp and just leaving it on the banks because they think it’s not an edible fish. My aim is to help change people’s minds.”
Shoalhaven Food Network Autumn Celebration of Food
Eat the Invaders is part of Shoalhaven Food Network’s Autumn Celebration of Food running from 01 May to 15 June 2025. This is a culinary extravaganza that has something for everyone. Taking place across the whole Shoalhaven, the 6 week long celebration is presenting:
Farm Fresh Delights Explore the bountiful harvest of the region with farm-fresh produce, hand-picked and bursting with autumnal goodness.
Wine Tastings Savour the finest wines crafted by local wineries, perfectly paired with the seasonal fare to tantalise your taste buds.
Chef Demonstrations Learn from culinary masters as they share their secrets and techniques to create delectable dishes inspired by the flavours of autumn.
Live Music & Entertainment Set the mood with live music and entertainment, creating the perfect ambiance to enjoy delightful food and great company.
Artisanal Market Discover unique artisanal products and crafts that showcase the creativity and talent of local artisans, perfect for bringing a piece of the Shoalhaven home with you.
Community Spirit Connect with fellow food enthusiasts and local producers, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the culinary treasures of the Shoalhaven region.
