Torres Strait Island Flavours with Nornie Bero

We’re beyond excited to welcome Nornie Bero, the powerhouse of native Australian cooking to Otao Kitchen as part of our Cooking with Stars series. Known for her bold, unapologetic approach to food and deep connection to her Torres Strait Island heritage, Nornie brings more than just incredible flavours, she brings stories, culture, and spirit to the plate.

In this one-night-only, hands-on cooking class, you’ll get a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of Australia’s most inspiring First Nations chefs. You’ll explore how Indigenous ingredients, storytelling, and age-old traditions combine to create a cuisine that’s truly unlike anything else.

Expect to roll up your sleeves and cook alongside Nornie as she guides you through vibrant dishes using seasonal produce, native herbs and spices, and sustainable cooking techniques; guided by one of Australia’s most celebrated First Nations chefs with her signature warmth and energy.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN & EXPERIENCE

• Discover the roots of Torres Strait Islander cuisine through Nornie’s stories and techniques
• Work with authentic native herbs, spices and seasonal Australian ingredients
• Learn how to balance bold, earthy, and fresh flavours
• Prepare a full meal under Nornie’s guidance
• Enjoy the fruits of your labour with a hearty feast and a complimentary drink
• Take home the recipes and confidence to keep experimenting with Indigenous ingredients in your own kitchen

INDICATIVE MENU

• Warrigal Greens Salsa Verde with Yam Chips - Crisp yam chips paired with a zesty salsa verde made from native greens—a fresh and earthy start to the feast.
• Native-Spiced Fish Balls - Bursting with coastal flavours, these tender fish balls are infused with native spices and cooked to golden perfection.
• Macadamia Labneh - A creamy, tangy dip with a native twist, this labneh is made with rich macadamia and a sprinkle of bush herbs, perfect for sharing.
• Crocodile Schnitzel with Native Slaw - Crispy, golden crocodile schnitzel served with a crunchy, colourful slaw dressed in bush tomato and finger lime dressing - an adventurous main that celebrates the land and sea.
• Coconut Keens Curry Chicken - A heartwarming chicken curry featuring Nornie’s signature blend of spices, slow-cooked in a creamy coconut base—an homage to island comfort food.

CLASS HIGHLIGHTS

• Cook alongside Mabu Mabu’s founder, cookbook author and celebrated chef, Nornie Bero
• Hands-on learning with Indigenous ingredients and seasonal produce
• Enjoy a multi-course meal that you’ve cooked, paired with a complimentary drink
• Gain exclusive chef tips, techniques, and take-home recipes
• Opportunity to meet Nornie, get your cookbook signed, and shop her unique range of spices and condiments

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Refreshments throughout the class

• All ingredients and cooking equipment provided

• Apron to use during the session

• Multi-course meal prepared by you, served and enjoyed on-site

• Complimentary drink

• Digital recipe pack to continue your native Australian food journey at home

ON THE DAY

• 2.5-hour cooking class with guided demonstrations and hands-on preparation

• Welcome drink and introduction to the dishes

• Cook a full menu with guidance from Nornie and our team

• Enjoy a shared meal and mingle with fellow food lovers

• Get to know Nornie, ask questions, and get your copy of her cookbook signed

• Please arrive 10 minutes early to settle in - class starts promptly at 6:30PM

Join this unforgettable celebration of culture, identity and community. Book your spot below and get ready to meet the chef behind Mabu Mabu and taste something truly special.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Rescheduling: If you need to reschedule more than 14 days before the event, there’s no charge to change to a new class date. For subsequent date changes, a $49pp fee will apply. If rescheduling within 14 days of the event, we can only accommodate changes due to illness, provided a medical certificate is supplied. The $49pp admin fee will still apply.

• No Refunds or Rescheduling: Refunds or reschedules will not be available if: a) you fail to arrive on time; b) you voluntarily leave after the class has started and c) you need to leave the event due to illness, injury, or bereavement. We highly recommend securing travel and medical insurance.

• Unable to Attend? If you are unwell, we encourage you to send someone in your place. Attendees who are not unwell are still expected to attend.

• Lateness: Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate or refund for late arrivals, even if you notify us in advance. The instructor will start the class on time and won’t be able to repeat any health and safety briefings or demonstrations.

• For more details, read our FAQs and booking terms