'Home cooking' at Jabiru Golf Club

Former Jabiru resident Amanda Henderson is back in her home town - and cooking up a storm.

FOR Amanda Henderson, taking up a position as chef at the Jabiru Golf Club is something of a homecoming.

Amanda first came to Jabiru at the age of three, growing up here before leaving in 1998 to pursue her career as a chef. Back then, Amanda’s surname was Dunstan – a well-known family name in Jabiru, particularly at the Golf Club.

“My dad Peter Dunstan and uncle Gary Dunstan were both members of the Jabiru Golf Club,” Amanda says.

The club also holds an annual tournament named after her cousin, the Darren Dunstan Memorial Ambrose, which this year will take place on August 15.

“Coming back here, it’s great to see that Jabiru hasn’t changed,” Amanda says. “I still feel at home. Jabiru hasn’t lost that little community feel, with a lot of the recreation still focused on outdoor activities such as fishing, and golf.”

Amanda, who has worked as a chef for the past 18 years, returned to Jabiru from Cairns.

“I was trained by one of the best chefs in Cairns, a German who emphasised the importance of keeping everything clean, and being able to think on your feet,” Amanda said. “Everything’s up to me now, and running my own business has been a long time in the making. I feel very privileged to have this chance, and it is very much a learning curve for me.”

Amanda says she aims to keep control of how all food is prepared in her kitchen.

“At the end of the day, that’s my name on a plate,” she says. “In the early stages I’ll look at providing healthier options, with food that keeps cooler for longer.”

Already cranking out a delicious range of gourmet pizzas, Amanda says customers can enjoy her fare at the club or take it home.

Takeaway pizza orders can be placed in advance by calling 8979 2575, or you can come down and check out the specials menu.

“It’s great to be back in Jabiru,” Amanda says. “It’s like a homecoming. I really love the feel of this community.”