Coochie Culinary Chronicles
This article was first published in Hi Tidings in December 2023.
By Nicole Peisley
Welcome to the inaugural edition of ‘Coochie Culinary Chronicles’, a delightful journey through the diverse and delectable food scene of Coochie Island. I am Nicole Peisley, a seasoned chef with over three decades of experience in the hospitality industry. Having relocated to this charming island two years ago, I am now immersed in the community, working as a trainer and assessor in both front and back-of-house operations.
My vision for this column is to bring together the Coochie community by highlighting the wonderful small food businesses that dot the island. In each edition, I will delve into the stories behind these establishments, showcasing not just their culinary offerings but also the local individuals who infuse passion and personality into the food scene.
As an authorised trainer for the Food Authority NSW, I feel it is my responsibility to keep the community informed about the latest developments in the food industry. In this edition, I would like to shed light on the recent changes that came into force on December 8th, 2023, impacting all charities involved in handling and preparing food for the public …
Do you have your food handlers’ certificate yet? It's essential for everyone to stay abreast of these changes to ensure compliance and the continued success of these charitable endeavours. In the spirit of transparency, I'd like to introduce you to my own venture, Aussie Wild Food Co, which has been serving delectable dishes in country NSW for the past three years. Excitingly, we've made the decision to relocate to Coochie with a heartfelt commitment to give back to the local community.
Find us at the Coochie Golf Club, where we'll be open for breakfast and lunch on all major event days. Our offering is simple and fresh, featuring casual fare such as burgers, wraps, and changing sweet treats. Aussie Wild Food Co. aims to be a haven for locals to relax, catch up with friends, and savour quality offerings. Our grand reopening is set for Australia Day 2024, where we invite you to join us for a taste of our renowned roast lamb rolls, topped with beetroot relish and tzatziki, or the classic lamb roast and gravy roll. As we embark on this culinary adventure together, I invite you to explore the rich and diverse flavours of Coochie through ‘Coochie Culinary Chronicles’.
From local businesses to regulatory updates, this column aims to celebrate the heart and soul of the island's food scene. Stay tuned for more exciting stories and delectable discoveries in the editions to come.
