Team Meet & Greet: Eddie

Eddie / Chef - St. Andrew’s Community Centre

We recently caught up with Eddie, one of our chefs here in St. Andrew’s - read on to learn more about his role in the centre!

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what your role is here at St. Andrew’s?
I’ve been here about 12 years now. I spent years working in restaurants, but the pace of part-time work and the chance to give back to the community I grew up in really appealed to me. I’m born and raised local, played football for a few local teams, and now work as part of the team of chefs in the kitchen here. There’s no hierarchy - we all muck in and work together. I’ve done my time in restaurants, so I’m well used to the hustle and bustle of a busy kitchen.

2. What does your job entail, and how do you support the work of the centre?
We provide an essential service, cooking for those who avail of Meals on Wheels, the Rialto Day Care Centre dinners, and catering for the many events run through the Rialto Development Association.

3. What have been some highlights or challenges in your role recently?
No major challenges - honestly, every day I get through the work is a highlight..

A few years ago, there was a funny moment more than a challenge. I was serving a full chicken when a woman said, “Eddie, there’s a string in this!” I told her there was no extra charge for it! You meet all sorts of personalities here - I try to meet people in the middle, and the community really appreciates that.

4. Finally, do you have a fun fact, favourite moment, or something inspiring you’d like to share?
After all the work I did during Covid, a few of the local heads promised me a pint… still waiting on it!