Education Events in Hampton

Come along and enjoy a magnificent guided foraging tour through the conifer pine forest in Hampton NSW. Lactarius Deliciousus and Slipery Jacks. Some of the earliest known illustrations of fungi are the representations of Lactarius deliciousus in the frescoes of Herculaneum and Pompeii. In Germany it is regarded by some as the best of all edible fungi. In China it is gathered and eaten on a large scale, and it is one of the officially recognised edible species sold in French markets. Always found growing under conifers, it is often buried by pine needles. In favourable seasons a giant can form, 10 – 30cm broad, can be often found. Prized in Europe, coveted by top Sydney restaurants, these wild mushrooms are yours for the picking! Once you can safely identify them that is. If you are a novice, it is strongly advised that you forage with an experienced mushroomer and obtain in-the-field guidance. Which is where we come in! This workshop will teach you everything you need to know to safely identify and forage for wild Saffron Milk Cap Mushrooms, enabling you to return season after season and forage for these delicious, free edibles. You will also learn how to cook and preserve your harvest during a demonstration on the day and will receive a handout containing step by step instructions and recipes. We welcome everyone to bring along a picnic lunch to enjoy in the stunningly beautiful forest, by the campfire, whilst watching the cooking and preserving demonstration. Please bring a small sharp knife to harvest your mushrooms and a basket/box to collect your mushrooms in. You can also purchase a professional mushroom foraging tool from us on the day at our meet up location (subject to availability). It is recommended to wear fully enclosed shoes (gumboots are best!) and long pants. It is not uncommon to encounter leaches in the forest. As it can get quite cold in the forest it is also best to wear warm clothing and bring a jacket.