Serving History with Love: A Culinary Tribute to Dorothy and Her Family’s Cornish Pasties

Food has an incredible ability to connect us to the past, preserving memories and traditions in every bite. Vasey RSL Care are honoured to share these stories through their commemorative recipe book, Serving History With Love: A Vasey RSL Culinary Journey. This special collection features recipes that hold deep personal significance for those who contributed them, opening a window into their lives and histories.

One such treasured recipe comes from late Bundoora resident, Dorothy, and her daughter, Judy. Their family’s Cornish pasties recipe was passed down from Dorothy’s husband—Judy’s father—who learned the art of food preparation while growing up in Thornbury, where his family owned the local deli.

His culinary journey took an unexpected turn during his service in Papua New Guinea and Borneo from 1941 to 1945. Like many soldiers, he endured a monotonous diet of bully beef, which quickly became a dreaded staple. But one unforgettable incident in the Borneo jungle broke the routine. While on guard duty, he and a mate thought they heard enemy footsteps and fired their guns into the darkness. When they investigated, they discovered they had brought down a wild boar. For the next few days, they feasted on roast pork—an extraordinary and welcome change from their usual rations.

At home, however, it wasn’t roast pork that brought comfort to the family, but ‘Dad’s Cornish Pasties’—a recipe that became a beloved staple, symbolising warmth, resilience, and family tradition. Dorothy and Judy generously shared this cherished dish with Vasey RSL Care, ensuring that its legacy lives on in Serving History With Love.

Remembering Dorothy

With deep gratitude, we remember Dorothy, who passed away late last year. Our sincere condolences go to Judy and the entire family. Through her contribution to Vasey RSL Care’s recipe book, Dorothy’s memory lives on, bringing joy and connection to all who recreate her family’s treasured pasties.

You’re invited to explore Serving History With Love, where each recipe is more than just a set of ingredients—it’s a piece of history, served with love.

Priced at $50, all profits go to support the veterans participating in the V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program.

Purchase online, or drop in to any of Vasey RSL Care's aged care homes, Central Office or the V Centre and save postage.

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