Island Echoes with Nornie Bero

A celebration of culture, community and connection – Island Echoes with Nornie Bero premieres 8 January

This January, join acclaimed Torres Strait Islander chef and cultural ambassador Nornie Bero on a vibrant journey through the breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions of her homeland in her brand-new series, Island Echoes with Nornie Bero. Premiering on NITV and SBS On Demand on Wednesday 8 January at 8:30pm, and Monday 13 January at 7:30pm on SBS Food, Nornie explores the unique stories, flavours and histories of the Torres Strait Islands, showcasing the diverse cultures that thrive in this remote paradise.

Known for her passion for Indigenous cuisine and storytelling, Nornie invites viewers into her world as she cooks traditional dishes using locally sourced ingredients, while also sharing the customs of her Ancestors. From fishing with local communities to participating in traditional ceremonies, Nornie connects the past with the present, highlighting the resilience and creativity of the Torres Strait people.

Island Echoes with Nornie Bero is not just a cooking show; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection to the land. Each episode includes a feast, where Nornie and her guests reflect on the importance of heritage, sustainability, and the power of food to bring people together.

In the series, Nornie returns to her roots on Mer Island, a place steeped in cultural significance and personal memories, where she reflects on her journey as a chef and cultural advocate while reconnecting with the vibrant community that shaped her.

Throughout the journey, discover traditions that have been passed down through generations and explore many incredible locations and recipes of the Torres Strait including island scallops with ocean seasoning in Badu Island, musu steak with wattle seed in Moa and a delicious fresh Masig seafood platter in Masig.

In Island Echoes, discover the echoes of the past that resonate through the vibrant culture of the Torres Strait Islands and be inspired to cherish and celebrate the stories that shape our world.

Host, Nornie Bero said: “As an island girl, this series is incredibly close to my heart. Island Echoes is a chance to share the beauty of my home, the Torres Strait. It’s not just about the stunning oceans, the lush scenery, or the rich history of the place, it’s about the people. The Torres Strait is home to such incredible individuals, whose knowledge, culture, and warmth are a big part of what makes this place so special. I want viewers to experience that magic firsthand, and of course the food. From the reef to the backyard gardens, we have access to some of the most delicious, fresh produce right at our doorstep. I’m so excited to showcase all of this in Island Echoes, and I hope that it inspires people to explore this amazing destination and learn from the incredible people who call it home.”

NITV Head of Indigenous Commissions and Production, Dena Curtis said: “NITV is delighted to have “Island Echoes with Nornie Bero”. featured in our summer program. We look forward to welcoming Nornie to the NITV family as she reconnects with friends and family, the beautiful coastlines and stories of the Torres Strait. Island Echoes is a spectacle of ingredients sourced from the land and sea as Nornie prepares mouthwatering dishes inspired by her of home islands.”

SBS Head of Entertainment and Food, Emily Griggs said: “SBS Food is thrilled to welcome Nornie Bero with her own series, Island Echoes, celebrating the incredible flavours and traditions of the Torres Strait Islands. After hosting The Cook Up for NAIDOC Week the past few years, we’re thrilled Nornie now takes us to her home and shares Indigenous ingredients and recipes, with her signature modern twist. Set in the stunning islands, Island Echoes showcases fresh and flavourful dishes that highlight the unique food culture of the Torres Strait.”

Island Echoes with Nornie Bero is a co-commission series produced by Dual Entertainment for NITV and SBS Food.

Dual Entertainment Executive Producers Rikki-Lee Lacco and Darren Anderson said: ““We are incredibly proud to present Island Echoes, a celebration of the Torres Strait Islands’ vibrant culture and culinary heritage. Collaborating with acclaimed Indigenous chef Nornie Bero was an honour. Her passion and deep connection to the islands brought authenticity and heart to the series. Filming on the breathtaking Torres Strait Islands was a transformative experience, capturing rich stories, stunning landscapes, and local traditions. Partnering with NITV and SBS Food allowed us to share these voices on a national platform, creating a show that’s more than food, it’s a celebration of identity, connection, and the power of storytelling.”

Island Echoes with Nornie Bero will premiere on Wednesday, 8 January at 8.30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand, and Monday, 13 January at 7:30pm on SBS Food. Captions in English and subtitles in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese will be available on SBS On Demand.

Season available SBS on demand

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Episode One: Homecoming to Mer Island

Wednesday, 8 January at 8.30pm

Host Nornie Bero returns to her roots on Mer Island, a place steeped in cultural significance and personal memories. As she steps onto the shores of her homeland, Nornie reflects on her journey as a chef and cultural advocate while reconnecting with the vibrant community that shaped her.

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Episode Two: The Beauty of Badu

Wednesday, 15 January at 8.30pm

Host Nornie travels to Badu Island, where she reunites with her close friend Aunty Nancy at Alup Beach. Then, Nornie meets acclaimed artist Alick Tipoti, engaging in a creative exchange while preparing delicious dishes using fresh local ingredients.

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Episode 3: Moa And More

Wednesday, 22 January at 8.30pm

Chef Nornie ventures to the picturesque Moa Island, where she meets with Hans Awang. Together, they explore his lush garden brimming with fresh produce and the bountiful ocean at his doorstep.

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Episode Four: Kup Murri and the Spirit of Tradition

Wednesday, 29 January at 8.30pm

Nornie continues her journey on Masig Island, uncovering one of the Torres Strait’s most sought-after dishes, prepared using the renowned Kup Murri. As she delves into the art of cooking with this iconic method, she also explores the deep cultural significance it holds for the island’s community.

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Episode Five: Memories and Flavours of Thursday Island

Wednesday 5 February 8:30pm

Nornie returns to Thursday Island, a place close to her heart where she spent much of her childhood. She reconnects with old friends, reminiscing about life on the island and its rich cultural heritage. Along the way, she meets the inspiring team behind Island Stars. Drawing from her deep connection to the island, Nornie creates mouthwatering dishes bursting with bold flavours, paying homage to the traditions and vibrant ingredients that make Thursday Island so special.

Episode 6: Hammond Island’s History And Flavours

Wednesday 12 February 8:30pm

Nornie journeys to Hammond Island to explore its unique blend of cultures and rich history. She meets with long-time locals who share stories about the island’s past and the ways diverse cultural influences have shaped its culinary traditions. Inspired by the island’s vibrant heritage, Nornie crafts a selection of incredible dishes packed with bold, mouthwatering flavours, celebrating the fusion of tradition and innovation in Hammond Island’s cuisine. This episode is a tribute to the island’s community, culture, and deliciously diverse food.

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Episode 7: The Sunrise and Flavours of Horn Island

Wednesday, 19 February at 8.30pm

Nornie journeys to Horn Island, a familiar place and a hub for travellers in the Torres Strait. Reliving fond childhood memories, she joins the locals at sunrise for a peaceful morning of fishing off the pier. Inspired by the day’s fresh catch, Nornie prepares a selection of scrumptious dishes that showcase the incredible bounty of the ocean.

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Episode 8: Erub - Final Episode

Wednesday, 26 February at 8.30pm on NITV

In the final episode of Island Echoes, Nornie visits the breathtaking island of Erub to experience a truly unique local pastime. Nornie immerses herself in the island’s vibrant culture, connects with the community, and prepares incredible Torres Strait dishes, celebrating the flavours, traditions, and stories of this magical place.

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This episode was featured on the new season premiere of Gogglebox tonight. Nornie demonstrated two dishes: River mint octopus with desert herbs and Pearl meat namas.

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