Coffs Coast Long Lunch events began in 2023, created by passionate food lover Awia Markey. Surprised and delighted by the number of local growers and producers in the Coffs Coast region, she wanted to meet them, try their produce, and find ways to promote them.
“The Coffs Coast has so many high quality food producers that a lot of people aren’t aware of. I wanted to meet with local producers and growers, hear their food stories, and share those interactions with locals.”
The idea to run long lunches that focus on smaller, independent producers was inspired by creating tour itineraries for her food tours business, where guests sample local food. “You have to taste the food to know it, understand how it is produced, and who produced it.”
Connecting food lovers
Whether you live locally, or you are visiting from out of town, attending a Coffs Coast Long Lunch is an opportunity to find out more about the Coffs Coast food scene by meeting the people who are creating it.These events offer food lovers tips, and learnings, as well as delicious dining.
The aim of each Coffs Coast Long Lunch is to promote the Coffs Coast region as a food destination; connect locals with local producers and providores; and connect local producers with each other for potential collaborations. “These are important goals for me, as well as offering guests a fun day to indulge in delicious food and wine, and conversations with other food lovers,” says Awia. “Our ethos is local food, community, and connection.”
Coffs Coast Long lunch guest speakers
Local growers, producers, and chefs are invited to speak at each Long Lunch to share their food story and passion for food. The format is a short, informal in-conversation with each speaker, with a Q&A to follow. Each speaker also has a 5 minute window to answer any questions about their produce and how to use it.
Speakers at previous events include David Ricketts (Chocolate DR); Catherine Scarborough (Catherine’s Black Garlic); Leeharne Hawley (Orara Valley Produce); Charelle Harkins (Painted Blue Coffee); Alice Williams and Darren Smith (New Life Farm); Chef Loic Prouin (99 On Park restaurant); Juliana Pelmore (Balhyoso Korean Fermentary); Dianne Knobloch (Raleigh Coffee & Eats); Laura Gonzales (Peach and Wolf Bakery), and local spray-free flower grower Alicia Bailey (The Alkemist).
At each lunch speakers shared their background story with an enthusiastic audience, curious to know more about local food producers, and where to source their products. Guests can also taste samples of produce at the Talk & Taste tables, which provide another opportunity for growers and producers to chat one-on-one with attendees. At each event the quite generous lucky door prizes features local food and condiments.
Where can people attend the lunches?
Coffs Coast Long Lunches are bi-annual, and held in different venues at various restaurant locations in the Coffs Coast region. “Come for a laugh, be inspired, ask questions, connect, and celebrate local food,” says Awia.
Coffs Coast Long Lunch:
Email cclonglunch@gmail.com
Instagram @coffscoastlonglunch
Facebook @coffscoastlonglunch
0410 444 136
Image credits: Gavin Moroney
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