January 8, 2026

What we cook comes from who we are - pull up a chair!

Growing up in the spotlight of her grandparents' history, Alli Parker honors a unique heritage. Her grandmother, Nobuko Sakuramoto, became Australia's first Japanese war bride in 1952. Read how the next generation is preserving this legacy with a deep sense of pride.

The granddaughters preserving the legacy of Japanese war brides: 'A sense of pride'

Growing up, Alli Parker would watch as her grandparents were interviewed by media.

Her Japanese grandmother, Nobuko Sakuramoto (aka Cherry Parker), married Australian Gordon Parker and, in the process, became the first Japanese “war bride” to come to Australia in 1952.

Junior High Students Revive the Legacy of a War Bride

From a school history project to a permanent tribute in Hiroshima: the inspiring story of the students who built a bench for Cherry Parker. How the romance of Australia's first Japanese war bride captivated a community and proved that love can grow even in the darkest of times.

January 8, 2026

Food, Family, and the Echo of War Brides

More than just a meal: how Japanese war brides in 1950s Australia used food to rebuild their lives. Featuring the recipe for "Okaasan’s Aussie Okonomiyaki"—a savory pancake born from resilience, improvisation, and the love of feeding a family.

What we cook comes from who we are - pull up a chair!

The granddaughters preserving the legacy of Japanese war brides: 'A sense of pride'

More stories to explore

Junior High Students Revive the Legacy of a War Bride

Food, Family, and the Echo of War Brides