ANZAC Biscuit Making Tradition Honors WWII Legacy in Mt Isa

In the heart of Mt Isa, Amanda Turner, a proud member of the Queensland Country Women’s Association, continues a cherished tradition of baking ANZAC biscuits passed down from her grandmother, Rose Beutel. As ANZAC Day approaches, Amanda, aged 39, finds solace and connection in recreating her grandmother’s home-made recipe that dates back to the World Wars. The warm aroma of freshly baked ANZAC biscuits stirs memories of her grandmother guiding her through the art of baking, instilling in Amanda a love for this heartfelt tradition.

Amanda recently shared a batch of her Anzac biscuits with Troy Hartas, the esteemed President of the Mt Isa RSL. Hartas, a 20-year veteran who served in the Royal Australian Navy and retired as a petty officer systems supervisor operator, expressed deep gratitude for Amanda’s gesture. Their shared moment over a cuppa and biscuits exemplifies the unity and camaraderie fostered within the Mt Isa community, especially among those who have served in the defense forces.

Amanda’s grandmother, Rose Beutel, originally from Laidley in the Lockyer Valley and later residing in Redlands, played a pivotal role in shaping Amanda’s culinary skills. Rose, along with her husband, sold fruits and vegetables to American soldiers stationed at Cleveland Point during WWII. From her grandmother, Amanda learned the art of measuring, reading recipes, and perfecting the classic Anzac biscuit dough-rolling technique, creating lasting memories that resonate with her to this day.

The act of baking Anzac biscuits stands as a tribute to the servicemen and women who have sacrificed for Australia. Hartas, a veteran of the Middle Eastern and Vietnam wars, emphasizes the importance of gestures like Amanda’s in fostering a sense of community within the RSL. He underlines the significance of shared stories and support, particularly in aiding veterans who may be struggling.

Anzac biscuits, a symbol of remembrance and gratitude, hold a special place in Australian history. While debates about the inclusion of coconut in the recipe persist, Amanda staunchly stands by her grandmother’s version, favoring the addition of extra coconut for added flavor. Encouraging readers to try their hand at baking, Amanda offers her grandmother’s cherished Anzac biscuit recipe as a token of tradition and connection.

As Anzac Day approaches, communities across Australia come together to honor the legacy of those who have served. Through the simple act of baking Anzac biscuits, individuals like Amanda Turner pay homage to the past while strengthening the bonds of friendship and support within their community. The tradition of sharing homemade Anzac biscuits continues to bridge generations, weaving a collective narrative of remembrance and appreciation.