Men in the kitchen: cooking up skills and connections

7 Mar 2025

Pangerang Community Hub’s Men’s Cooking Group is empowering local men with confidence, skills, and community spirit

When Pangerang Community Hub learned that some local men in Wangaratta weren’t confident in the kitchen—and that malnutrition among older men living alone was on the rise—they saw an opportunity to make a difference. Their solution? A Men’s Cooking Group designed to teach participants how to create delicious, healthy, and affordable meals.

“The program has made a real difference,” said Pangerang Community Hub Executive Officer, Tennille Hall. “Not only are the men gaining confidence in the kitchen, but they’re also enjoying the social connections and being able to take food home—especially important with the rising cost of living.”

The impact of the program has already extended beyond the kitchen. The men have taken the initiative to bake savoury and fruit muffins, which are delivered to a local school to help support their breakfast and lunch programs.

“The group loves knowing they’re making a difference for kids in the community,” Tennille said. “We’re now exploring ways to expand this support to other schools.”

The success of the program has been made possible through Council sponsorship, and generous support from Woolworths and a local butcher. The tutor and volunteer who facilitate the program share their knowledge and ensure that every participant is well-supported as they learn new skills.

With the program now at capacity, Pangerang Community Hub is looking at ways to expand—particularly focusing on the social connection aspect, which has become just as valuable as the cooking itself.

“This is about more than just food,” Tennille explained. “It’s about bringing people together, building confidence, and strengthening our community.”