The Karen Mortar and Pestle Project launched at the Wyndham Park Community Shed on Thursday, October 24.
The ‘whacka whacka’, as the traditional Karen mortar and pestle is affectionately known as, is a foot-operated tool used for pounding and mixing spices, grains, and preparing sticky rice, a culinary staple of Karen culture.
The mortar and pestle were crafted by the Karen Men’s woodwork group with the guidance of project leader Eddy Say and volunteer Peter Vaux and was complimented by a mosaic of the Karen flag.
Attendees were treated to a live demonstration of sticky rice preparation, with the Karen women’s group crafting over 100 rice balls and demonstrating use of the mortar and pestle to make two kilograms of sticky rice.
Wyndham Park Community Centre’s bicultural worker Waan Tardiff said the project was culturally significant.
“This project not only highlights our culinary traditions but also celebrates our heritage, sparking conversations about the Karen refugee community in Wyndham and the ongoing human rights challenges in Myanmar,” she said.
Victorian Multicultural Commission deputy chairperson Bwe Thay said about he people of Myanmar, especially ethnic minorities, faced ongoing struggles.
“Human rights are essential to all human beings. Yet as we witness the ongoing crisis, it feels as though the world is watching in silence,” he said.
Visitors are encouraged to visit the mortar and pestle project at the Wyndham Park Community Shed, which is open to the public throughout the week alongside other programs.
Jaidyn Kennedy
