VCE Indonesian Language Excursion

On the afternoon of Friday, June 9th, the VCE Indonesian students arrived happily at 'Kenangan' (Memory) Indonesian restaurant. Despite the sunny and windy weather, there was no rain to dampen their spirits. With big smiles and hearty appetites, they were ready to indulge in a good meal. We celebrated the completion of Unit 1 and 3 by enjoying delicious chicken satay and 'Sambal Terong' (eggplant with chilli sauce) as our appetiser. Our tummies were full after relishing rice with grilled chicken and fried noodles.

Next, we strolled to Lygon Street, where we visited 'Beku' (frozen) Gelato, an ice cream store. This establishment boasted a unique taste in their ice cream and gelato. They offered items made with Indonesian herbal remedies such as 'Tolak Angin', black sticky rice with coconut milk, calamansi, durian and cendol (Indonesian green jelly). Almost everyone couldn't resist the temptation of these delicious and distinct flavours, resulting in everyone getting two generous scoops.

After enjoying our delightful dessert, we made our way to 'Laguna' Indonesian Supermarket in QV. There, we played a game where groups of two or three students had to complete Ibu Sumarno's shopping list of 10 items. Ibu required ingredients to make 'Rendang' (Beef Curry) and the children's herbal remedy. Not to forget, various flavours of 'Nano-nano' (lollies) were also on the list. After 15 minutes of traversing from one aisle to another, one group emerged as the winner - Audrey and PinQi.

It was truly a wonderful day, celebrating, enjoying and discovering the Indonesian culture in the heart of Melbourne's CBD. This experience not only exposed the students to Indonesian cuisine but also prepared them for their exams. The knowledge of herbal remedies and cooking ingredients was a part of the exam material, incorporating cultural understanding. This excursion provided a hands-on and immersive learning experience, expanding their cultural knowledge through food.