The kitchen and food stores at Sutherland Entertainment Centre are being put to a good purpose during the coronavirus pandemic.
Following the closure of the council-operated centre, executive chef Chef Dale Armstrong and his team have been preparing meals for three community organisations.
The organisations, Project Youth, Orana and Hopefield, cater for at-risk youth and women and children fleeing domestic violence.
The council says the "Dinner by Dale" meals are "restaurant quality".
The operation is being carried out in conjunction with the council's Business Sport and Community Services team.
Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce praised the innovative scheme.
"While this pandemic and health measures which have been brought in to contain its spread have undoubtedly had a major impact on families and businesses everywhere, it is important to remember the impact has been just as severe on those who are already among the most marginalised within our community," he said.
"For those in our community, who have ever sampled the fare on offer at the many events staged at Sutherland Entertainment Centre, you will know that our kitchen staff do an absolutely amazing job in producing some truly spectacular cuisine.
"Now we will see their hard work, expertise and fridges full of top-notch ingredients put to good use, producing restaurant quality meals for those most in need throughout the shire."
Project Youth CEO Jodie Darge said the initiative would make a real difference in the lives of those served by her organisation.
"During the Covid-19 pandemic, Project Youth have seen an increased need for young people facing disadvantage and homelessness to be supported," Ms Darge said.
"Having support from the council's 'Dinner by Dale' initiative has meant we can distribute meals to young people in our crisis refuges and transitional housing, keeping them nourished with food cooked by a professional chef, which has made a real difference to their lives."
