From Birchip to Italy: A Culinary Masterclass with Chef Stefano Di Pieri
IVET Institute partner school Birchip P-12, located in regional Victoria, recently gave students a taste of professional cooking thanks to a hands-on visit from one of Australia’s most beloved chefs.
Renowned for his passion for local produce and Italian tradition, Stefano Di Pieri spent two immersive days with first, and second-year VET Cookery students, bringing lessons far beyond the kitchen.
A Connection Years in the Making
Stefano’s relationship with Birchip began decades ago through his friendship with locals Eddie and Frances Lee and continued through his time as a board member of the Birchip Cropping Group (BCG). It was during a 50-year celebration dinner for BCG, where he welcomed help in the kitchen, that Kristy Knights (VET Cookery teacher at Birchip P-12) formed a connection that would eventually bring Stefano back to the region – to cook, to teach, and to inspire.
Lessons in Simplicity, Seasonality and Soul
The visit began with an engaging classroom session, where Stefano spoke about the value of building a well-stocked pantry and preparing meals that are both nutritious and affordable—lessons highly relevant to students preparing for life after school.
Then, a short walk to Birchip’s local IGA and Bourke’s Butcher turned into a mini-masterclass on shopping seasonally, choosing quality produce, and making food choices based on freshness and availability, a true paddock-to-plate perspective.
A Hands-On Feast in the Kitchen
Back in the kitchen, the atmosphere was electric. Stefano’s calm, inclusive style allowed every student to get involved. Working side-by-side, they prepared an impressive array of dishes including:
- Traditional Bolognese
- Handmade gnocchi and pasta
- Mushroom risotto
- Lamb ragù
- Potato soup
- Focaccia and bread rolls
- Farfalle with broccoli
- Santiago cake
Students learned foundational techniques like how to make soffritto (a mix of onion, carrot and celery at the heart of many Italian dishes), and how to balance flavours and textures from scratch.
“The kitchen was full of laughter, hands-on learning, and shared meals,” Kristy said. “It was a masterclass not just in cookery, but in connection and community.”
A Lasting Impact
Stefano’s visit left more than full stomachs – it left a lasting impression. Students walked away with new skills, new confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the creativity and discipline behind great cooking.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Stefano for his generosity,” Kristy added. “His time, warmth, and willingness to teach meant the world to our students.”
IVET Institute is proud to support schools like Birchip P–12 in delivering real-world hospitality and cookery experiences that inspire students and build skills for life.
We hope this isn’t the last time the Birchip kitchen is graced by Stefano’s presence, and based on the smiles, it certainly won’t be.