#CookForSyria Charity Dinner

Overview

As the federal government continues to drag its feet resettling refugees fleeing the Syrian conflict (Australia had managed about 6000 by last November — Canada by comparison, was at well over 30,000), it falls once more to the non-political professions to show the government where the hands go on the 1humanitarian clock. This time, it's hospitality's turn.

On March 6, UNICEF Australia will partner with 11 of the country's best chefs for a charity dinner celebrating Syria's strong culinary tradition. The Point Albert Park will host the posse of gastronomers as they prepare a banquet comprising their signature dishes with a few Syrian flourishes. If you've never been at the mercy of za'atar, pomegranate, Aleppo pepper or tamarind, this could well be a revelation. Tickets are a steep $329 per person (plus booking fee), but 75 percent of the proceed will go to UNICEF's Syria Crisis Appeal. The price includes canapés, cocktails on arrival, a shared Syrian-inspired feast and wine.

It may seem on the surface like you're paying for the food, but ten professional chefs jammed into a single kitchen also suggests a night of great theatre. Movida's Frank Camorra and Lee Ho Fook's Victor Liong will be in the fray, with David Thompson of the newly opened Long Chim and Anchovy's Thi Le contending for next use of the colander with equal ferocity. If you've ever wanted to see Karen Martini trying to slice potato with steel wool or fighting a pitched battle for the top shelf of the oven, this could well be your chance. Other chefs rounding out the impressive lineup include Lûmé's Shaun Quade, Maha's Shane Delia, Embla's Dave Verheul, The Point's Andy Harmer, Jacques Reymond and David Moyle of Hobart's Franklin and soon-to-open Melbourne restaurant Longsong.

While the top guns will have their turn on March 6, UNICEF Australia is encouraging anyone with passing knowledge of an oven to contribute. Restaurants and cafes can produce a limited edition 'Syria' version of a favourite dish throughout the month, of which a portion of the proceeds will go to UNICEF. For those who deal in culinary delight on a slightly smaller scale, bake sales are your recommended course. While you're waiting for the oven to pre-heat, there's more information here.