Explore Our Rich Cornish History

Our Heritage: The Story Behind the Proper Oggie

The Yorke Peninsula is full of stories, and one of the most important begins just down the road at the historic Moonta Mines — part of the remarkable Moonta Mines National Heritage Site.

In the 1800s, thousands of Cornish miners travelled here to work the rich copper mines. They brought more than mining skills with them — they brought their traditions, their community spirit, and a very practical lunch.

The Cornish pasty.

Back then, miners needed a hearty meal they could take underground. The traditional pasty was cleverly divided:
two thirds filled with meat and vegetables to keep them going through a hard day’s work, and the final third filled with something sweet — usually apple.

It was the original two-course meal in one.

Here at Taste the Yorke, we honour that local heritage with our version of the Proper Oggie.

Made the traditional way, just as the Cornish miners enjoyed it:
two thirds savoury filling, one third apple pie.

It’s more than just a meal. It’s a small taste of the history that helped shape this region and the community we’re proud to be part of.

So if you’re exploring the heritage trails, wandering through Moonta, or simply curious about the stories behind the Yorke Peninsula, the Proper Oggie is a delicious place to start.

And yes… the sweet end is meant to be saved for last.