Penny the Pancake did the rounds drumming up business while chief grill jockey Travis made sure he got the timing right on the flip.
This was the scene at Federation Square this morning where synod staff, volunteers from the NAB and a group of Year 11 students provided rush-hour morning commuters with a hearty breakfast as part of UnitingCare Pancake Day.
The bright yellow stall was one of the 350 sites spread throughout Victoria and Tasmania taking part in the annual Shrove Tuesday fundraiser for UnitingCare agencies.
The Federation Square stall did not take long to serve its first customer after opening at 8am this morning. Uniting CEO Paul Linossier stepped up to get his two large pancakes.
He selected lemon and sugar as his topping but could have opted for Nutella or maple syrup, with ice cream an add-on.
“It’s great to see the Share team and the NAB volunteers cooking up a storm and creating an invitation for the whole community to contribute to the lives of our more vulnerable and disadvantaged citizens,” Mr Linossier said.
A quick poll of the Year 11 SEDA College students handing out event fliers, with one gamely wearing the Penny the Pancake costume to draw attention to the stall, determined that Nutella was the preferred topping.
The cooks from the NAB team chose the event as one of their staff community service days, as it provides a good opportunity to practise teamwork while supporting a good cause.
Chief pancake cook Travis said making a good pancake was indeed “a team effort” and he relied on his pourer to make sure the mixture formed a pleasing round shape.
His other tips for a perfect pancake were to have the grill hot – but not too hot – and to flip when the batter just starts to bubble.
Share director Angela Goodwin helped to take the orders.
“Pancake Day is a great way to interact with the community,” she said.
Marie Howard, senior manager of UnitingCare in Victoria and Tasmania, said the community outreach aspect of Pancake Day was important.
“As poverty levels rise across Australia, it’s important that communities pull together to support those around them who need it most,” Ms Howard said.
“Pancake Day is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together for a fun day while supporting the work of UnitingCare.”
While today is the official Pancake Day, fundraising events can be held any time throughout March.
Register to host an event at www.pancakeday.com.au or call 1800 060 543 to receive a free hosting resources pack.
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