- Published:
- Wednesday 29 April 2026 at 12:00 pm
The 2026 Victorian Museums and Galleries Awards has recognised the Shrine of Remembrance exhibition Taste of Combat: The evolution of military food with the Medium Project (Museum) award, celebrating excellence and innovation across Victoria’s museum and gallery sector.
The exhibition explores the evolution of military food and honours the important contribution of the Catering Corps — a role often overlooked in stories of service and sacrifice. Since opening, Taste of Combat has engaged audiences through personal stories, objects, multimedia experiences and reflections on the role food plays in wartime and remembrance.
According to the judges,
This project revealed refreshingly new aspects of military service in particular the contribution of the catering corps with its emphasis on nutrition, food technology and research. These less explored narratives were presented in a variety of formats which were relatable and experiential with the act of eating taking place at the Shrine alongside the exhibition. Beautifully presented, the exhibition connected intangible and tangible aspects of military service experience and provided audiences with a glimpse of contemporary military life.
Curator Kate Spinks-Colas said the recognition was a testament to the many contributors who helped bring the exhibition to life, including all the participants for their personal reflections, knowledge and enthusiasm; Studio Peter King for the inspired exhibition design; Gatherer Media for bringing stories of food and service to life via digital storytelling, Multiple Studio, PropArt, Collections Care, MEGS Lighting and all the institutional and individual lenders involved.
Taste of Combat shines a light on the people behind the meals that sustained service personnel through conflict and peacekeeping. We are incredibly honoured that this exhibition has been recognised by our peers and grateful to everyone who shared their stories, expertise and creativity to make it possible, she said.
The exhibition remains on display at the Shrine until November 2026. The Shrine congratulates curator Kate Spinks-Colas and the many collaborators, designers, storytellers, lenders and project partners who contributed to the award-winning exhibition.
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