Nourishing others, one meal at a time
In the heart of the Kimberley, a proud Darkinjung man and dedicated Air Force chef stirs a large pot of hearty stew, filling the kitchen with the aromas of simmering herbs and spices.
CAPTION: Air Force Chef Corporal Brent Devetak prepares meals for locals at Kununurra during Exercise Kummundoo 24. Story by Flying Officer Rose Gigliotti. Photo by Flight Lieutenant Yuen Dieu.
Corporal Brent Devetak is a long way from the central coast of NSW, where he grew up.
Exercise Kummundoo is celebrating 10 years of providing dental and other health services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in remote populations of Australia’s north.
This year, in partnership with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, Corporal Devetak prepared meals for visitors to the dental clinic in Kununurra, East Kimberley.
Corporal Devetak created 350 nutritious meals for community members who travelled long distances for essential dental care.
He wanted to ensure that they felt welcome and well fed during their visits.
“Food is a powerful way to bring people together and show love and care, so I’m honoured to be able to contribute in this way,” Corporal Devetak said.
He crafted soft, wholesome meals filled with nutrition and care, designed to uplift spirits.
Cooking for over 20 years, Corporal Devetak typically prepares meals for Air Force personnel in various kitchens around the world; however, this project connected him deeply to his culture.
As he chopped vegetables and seasoned proteins, logistics came together.
The Exercise Kummundoo team distributed nourishing dishes to patients to enjoy onsite while waiting to receive care.
The thought of their smiles motivated Corporal Devetak as he worked tirelessly.
The Air Force team joined him in the kitchen; camaraderie filled the space, creating a sense of unity, reminiscent of family gatherings.
When the final meal was packed, Corporal Devetak stepped back to admire the many meals – each carried a piece of his heart and heritage, symbolising sustenance and connection.
He looked forward to community members sharing moments that extended beyond the dental clinic – moments that fostered connection and felt the support.
Corporal Devetak stood alongside the Air Force dental, environmental health and medical tech teams with each meal handed out, he smiled, feeling the warmth of connection.
One recipient said families gathered, sharing stories and laughter over these meals.
Corporal Devetak knows this was more than just a task, it was a celebration of culture, resilience and community.
Exercise Kummundoo showcases Defence’s operation to improve the health outcomes for Indigenous peoples, while respecting the traditional owners through understanding and creating profound bonds through food.
For Corporal Devetak, it served as a powerful reminder that no matter where life takes him, he will always find a way to nourish and uplift his people through the joy of cooking.
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