- Published:
- Monday 9 December 2024 at 9:00 am
Taste of Combat: The evolution of military food
From navigating submarine kitchens to the science behind field rations, the Shrine’s groundbreaking exhibition reveals the unsung history of the Catering Corps and its vital role in military sustenance.
As the saying goes, “An army marches on its stomach.” Sustaining our troops is vital to afunctioning and successful military - yet the stories of those who cook, innovate and serve meals to troops remain little known. Taste of Combat, a new exhibition opening at the Shrine this month, is a groundbreaking exploration of military food throughout history, shining a light on the crucial work of the Catering Corps to keep soldiers fed, no matter the circumstances.
This exhibition marks the first time an Australian war memorial has explored the evolution of military food and the service of the Catering Corps. Visitors to Taste of Combat will discover the science, innovation and people behind the meals that have sustained Australian troops for over a century.
Rare items collected for the exhibition tell the story of military catering, including WWI 'hard tack' biscuits preserved for a soldier's mother, a 120-year-old Boer War ration pack and Cadbury chocolates sent to boost troops' morale during WWII.
Personal stories and memories bring the exhibition to life – from cooks on submarines, to nutritionists and soldiers with field rations – exploring the challenges of cooking in combat zones and the research and innovation that goes into every meal. Visitors will discover what WWI soldiers thought of their rations, hear stories from the field, find out what's in a modern-day ration pack, and learn how food bridges cultures and connects us, even when we’re far from home.
The exhibition’s Curator Kate Spinks-Colas says,
“There’s so much more to military catering than people imagine. Taste of Combat showcases the unsung heroes of our armed forces and spotlights the incredible innovation that goes on behind the scenes.”
Inspired by the exhibition, the Shrine will host ‘Dine at the Shrine’ on Thursday, 27 March. Running as part of the 2025 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, attendees will be able to experience a special three-course menu created by Peter Rowland that takes reference from military catering. Guests will also get an exclusive look at the exhibition before dinner.
Taste of Combat will show at the Shrine of Remembrance until late 2025. Learn more.
For media enquiries and interview requests, please contact:
Annabel Cohen on annabel@pitchprojects.com or 0451 916 294
Images and archival materials available upon request.
RELATED EVENT
Melbourne Food and Wine Festival: Dine at the Shrine
Thursday 27 March 2025 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Experience a special three-course menu created by Peter Rowland inspired by the Shrine’s new exhibition, 'Taste of Combat: The Evolution of Military Food.’ Taking reference from military catering, prepare for a meal where military ingenuity meets culinary flair. Between bites, hear gripping tales from veterans who’ve cooked everywhere from submarines to conflict zones.
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