How & Why We Started

In 1989 at the foot of the Spanish Steps in Rome, journalist Carlo Petrini was not happy with what he saw. McDonald’s had announced plans to open a restaurant at the bottom of this world-famous location. For him, it seemed that a global takeover of fast food was underway. He was certain it would be the beginning of the end for traditional and regional Italian foods. Petrini, together with a passionate group of followers, spoke out against the fast food chain.  

The protest gave birth to the Slow Food movement, which aims not only to counter fast food global domination, but promotes local production and environmentally responsible farming practices.

In 1989, Slow Food became an international movement which now counts more than 100.000 members in 130 countries.

Where we are today 

Slow food believes that the food we eat should taste good; that it should be produced in a clean way that it does not harm the environment, animal welfare or our health; and that food producers should receive fair compensation for their work.  

The Slow Food international website is at  www.slowfood.com.

What’s Slow Food? 

As founding member Maggie Beer – the well-known South Australian cook – describes the organisation: ‘It’s about forming networks between farmers and consumers, learning about the land and its limitations, and preserving regional food practices. It has thousands of members in over one hundred countries, all linking the pleasure of food with a real commitment to the community and to the environment. Slow Food is very close to my heart, and I really encourage anyone who can to get involved.’

Committee Members

Syd Pemberton
Co-Convivium Leader
sydpemberton@gmail.com
www.spfoodworkshop.com.au
0415737631

Anna Phillips
Co-Convivium leader
anna.phillips@bigpond.com
www.ontheplate.com.au
0418251523