World Home Economics Day provided the perfect incentive for HEIA(Q) to kick of their 2026 professional learning program with an event that allowed us to connect with colleagues and acknowledge our 2026 King and Amy O’Malley Trust scholars.  The morning provided numerous opportunities to connect with colleagues, especially through engaging with a range of first nations educational resources for the Australian classroom, available from Riley Callie – rileycallieresources.com.au –  that can be easily integrated into diverse home economics contexts.

At the Native Pantry workshop, held at Moreton Bay College on Saturday 21 March, participants shared personal and professional stories of their connection to home economics education over a morning tea inspired by native fruits, herbs and spices. In keeping with the IFHE 2026 theme of ‘You are what you eat – Feeding the future’, the event was a celebration of the importance of home economics, specifically the many ways the learnings foster sustainable, healthy, and high-quality living for individuals and families.

Professor Donna Pendergast AM presented the King and Amy O’Malley Trust scholars – Olivia Bennett, Leila Kenzler and Kiara Too – with their certificates of recognition. Olivia, Leila and Kiara’s undergraduate and post-graduate studies in food nutrition and food technology, and research in the area of nutrition science, specifically the factors influencing children’s dietary behaviours and system-wide changes to promote better nutrition, served to inspire the educators amongst us.

Creative juices were flowing when participants engaged in a profession learning activity challenging them to design and produce a signature ice cream featuring their own curated blend of native ingredients. The final product included their uniquely designed labelled tub of delicious frozen treat.

Who said having fun while learning is just for the students! Check out snaps from the morning.