Goanna Hut is an Aboriginal-owned catering and cultural education business founded by Chef Jo-Ann Lee, a proud Wiradjuri woman with over twenty-five years of culinary experience.
Modern Koori Fusion
Jo-Ann’s signature style - Modern Koori Fusion - brings together traditional bush foods and modern cooking techniques to create dishes that tell a story. Each recipe reflects her belief that food is a bridge between people, cultures, and Country.
Since launching Goanna Hut over fifteen years ago, Jo-Ann has cooked for government departments, schools, corporates, and community organisations across New South Wales and Queensland, delivering food experiences that are authentic, educational, and filled with heart.
Meet Jo-Ann
From her earliest memories, Jo-Ann learned the value of food, family, and storytelling. Her Wiradjuri heritage shapes everything she does - from the ingredients she selects to the way she shares knowledge about the land.
Over decades of professional chef experience, Jo-Ann has developed a deep passion for teaching Australians about the power of native ingredients. Her cooking demonstrations and workshops open minds and palates alike, showing how traditional food knowledge can enrich modern kitchens.
Jo-Ann’s mission is simple: to ensure Aboriginal food culture is recognised, respected, and enjoyed all year round - not only during NAIDOC or Reconciliation Week.
Our Philosophy
Every Goanna Hut event is grounded in three values:
Culture
Honouring First Nations traditions and knowledge.
Community
Sharing stories and creating spaces for connection.
Country
Respecting the ingredients, seasons, and landscapes that sustain us.
Through food, Goanna Hut will always the conversation about sustainability, cultural awareness, and the beauty of Aboriginal innovation.