Celebrity cook Paul Mercurio returns to cook up a feast at Fish Festival

Celebrity cook Paul Mercurio is returning to the Riverina to participate in NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Narrandera Fisheries Centre’s upcoming Fish Festival on Saturday 20 October.

NSW DPI Freshwater Fish Ecologist, Dr Lee Baumgartner, said the festival would celebrate the importance of fish, and also the Centre’s 50th birthday with many past staff returning to join in the festivities.

"Paul cooked at the inaugural fish festival in 2010, which attracted more than 4000 people," he said.

"He is based in Melbourne, but is well known locally through his television program 'Mercurio's Menu'.

"Paul is looking forward to returning to the Riverina and catching up with people who have a love of fishing and cooking.

"At the festival he will cook up some regional produce well known to locals.

"His aim is to produce a simple menu, while at the same time demonstrating how to prepare your catch in a healthy, but tasty, way."

Dr Baumgartner said Mr Mercurio may also participate in a fishing competition and was looking forward to shaping up against some of the local fishers.

The free event is supported by major sponsors NSW DPI, Norm Wettenhall Foundation, Narrandera Shire Council, Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Bendigo Bank and the Recreational Fishing Licence Trust.

Paul Mercurio is appearing courtesy of Live Well Narrandera (a healthy lifestyle program being undertaken by Narrandera Shire Council).

NSW DPI has also secured a game fishing simulator, free kids rides, the Taronga Park Zoomobile and the Australian Travelling Fish show as additional attractions on the day.

More than 30 local tackle shops, businesses and conservation groups will also set up exhibits.

"The event will have something for everyone and is a truly great way to celebrate fish and the Narrandera Fisheries Centre - NSW’s only inland fisheries research station," Dr Baumgartner said.

The day will run from 10am to 4pm. Lunch and refreshments will be available. For further information contact Narrandera Fisheries Centre on (02) 6958 8200.

Photo available from sarahc@sf.nsw.gov.au

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