FIRE Carriers

Mabu Mabu Big Esso

Hi, I’m Ben, one of OLA's 2023 FIRE carriers. I’m here to talk about my recent experience at a Torres Strait Islander restaurant called ‘Mabu Mabu Big Esso’ in Fed square.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Mabu Mabu and Big Esso, located in Melbourne's Federation Square. I had the best experience, the atmosphere, food and drinks were amazing.

I had the fig salad which was delicious, and the mint flavored oysters were an absolute delight. Everything about the experience was incredible.

They sauce each food with their signature Aboriginal sauces and spices. This brings out tons of flavor in each bite. This makes the authenticity in the food be more bold and delicious. Torres Strait Islander foods are amazing!

Mabu Mabu began as a stall at the South Melbourne Market, selling sauces and condiments made from native ingredients, such as bush tomato seasoning, a desert-herb meat rub and pineapple hot sauce. You can also buy these sauces and spices on their website. 

Big Esso by Mabu Mabu is now a wonderful restaurant in Fed square that everyone should try out. I recommend the Damper with Golden Butter. It was a great experience, and I'm glad I got to try something so unique. I would definitely recommend Mabu Mabu Big Esso to anyone looking to experience some of the unique Torres Strait Islander cuisine.

Ben S

FIRE Carrier

Welcome to Country

Have you been like me and watching the Women’s World Cup soccer? How good has the tournament been so far?

What I’ve enjoyed the most is watching the Welcome to Country. And it got me thinking, what is Welcome to Country?

Welcome to Country is delivered by Traditional Owners or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have been given permission from Traditional Owners to welcome visitors to their Country.

Traditionally it was used to welcome the visitors and offer them safe passage and protection of the spiritual being during the journey across the country. We use Welcome to Country today a little differently, but the essential elements remain: welcoming visitors and respect for Country.

If you would like to see my favorite Welcome to Country so far, click on this link. I hope you enjoy the Welcome to Country as much I did – Aussie Aussie Aussie

Have a lovely weekend!

Alastair D

FIRE Carrier