In Western Australia, a celebration of the state's culinary history showcases a unique blend of local culture and international influences. The exhibition, titled 'A Recipe for Life: The Food That Shapes Us', is a captivating journey through the evolution of food, from pre-colonial times to the present. David Craddock, manager of heritage and engagement at the State Library of Western Australia, emphasizes the universal connection humans have with food, highlighting how it has shaped migration, gender dynamics, economics, and commerce. The exhibition's ground floor is a treasure trove of artifacts, including maps, early photographs, oral histories, and menus from forgotten restaurants, offering a glimpse into the past. One particular focus is on the rise of takeaway venues in WA, with a fascinating story centered around the Red Rooster. The founders of these early takeaway spots were enterprising, drawing inspiration from America. Fish and chips were a staple, but the affordability of chicken in the 1970s and the arrival of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) in Australia sparked a local interest in chicken takeaways. The first Red Rooster outlet in Australia opened in Kelmscott, a suburb in Perth's southeast. The founders, Peter and Theo Kailis, were Greek migrants with a strong seafood background, but they quickly recognized the potential of chicken and chips. The exhibition also highlights the American influence on WA's food culture, with the introduction of the Hawaiian pack, a unique addition to the menu. This pack featured a deep-fried banana and pineapple ring, a twist on the traditional chicken meal. The Kailis brothers sold the Red Rooster business in 1981, but Peter Kailis continued to enjoy his Hawaiian packs well into his 90s, taking pride in his contribution to the business. The exhibition also explores the transition of chicken from a luxury food post-war to an affordable, everyday staple. Another unique WA food item is spearmint milk, a green-colored, mint-flavored milk that has become synonymous with the state. Masters Dairy, established in Byford in 1925, introduced this unique flavor, which is rarely found outside Western Australia. The exhibition 'A Recipe for Life: The Food That Shapes Us' is on display at the State Library of Western Australia's ground floor gallery until March 22, 2026, and admission is free.
