As for the title I like “Morning Magic”. When I first arrive at Billabong, it’s all quiet, I hear and see the animals moving around, a bit of a breeze, maybe the fog setting in, and then a little later the sun is rising, and it’s just a little bit of magic given to me each morning. Although I’m getting ready for work, it feels like I have the whole place to myself for that first hour, another little gift given to me.
How long have you been working in the kitchen at Billabong Retreat, and how did your journey here begin?
I have been at Billabong for approximately five and a half years in total. When I first started, I didn’t realise that the Billabong kitchen was mainly plant-based. At the time, I had no idea what quinoa or nutritional yeast was. At TAFE, we didn’t cover vegan or vegetarian food, so I was fortunate to be taught by some incredible chefs here at Billabong. They showed me how to be creative, how to use ingredients across both savoury dishes and desserts, and how not to be afraid to experiment. They will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am forever grateful that our paths crossed.
What do you enjoy most about preparing breakfast for our retreat guests?
Although I only have 2 hours to prepare breakfast, the thing that puts a smile on my face is seeing the guests’ smiles when they walk into the dining room. Some guest come to relax, while others are here for personal reasons. We take the hard work out for them, allowing them to simply choose their breakfast, sit down, and enjoy. Guest are welcomed with a buffet full of colour, variety, and wholesome options. They can enjoy savoury and sweet if they wish.
You’re well known for your beautiful afternoon sweet treats — what inspires the recipes you create?
My afternoon teas are inspired primarily by natural whole foods. By using natural ingredients, I aim to provide options that are nutrient-dense, rich in healthy fats, and easy to digest. Catering for 40-60 guests isn’t always easy, so I always keep dietary requirements and allergies in mind and do my best to accommodate for everyone. Some of my go-to desserts are raw treats, as they offer something different and provide guests with a unique opportunity to experience natural whole foods.
Why is cooking with whole, nourishing ingredients so important to you?
Cooking with whole, nourishing ingredients is so important, especially in this day and age when we often take food for granted. We go to the supermarket, place items in our trolley without a second thought, and rarely consider the ingredients in these products. We tend to trust the companies behind them, but unfortunately, they often have other priorities and motives.
Many processed foods contain ingredients such as vegetable oil, corn syrup, palm oil, artificial colours, emulsifiers, and preservatives. Overconsumption of these ingredients can lead to inflammation, obesity, and chronic diseases.
When we fuel our vehicles, we make sure it’s clean fuel that we are putting in otherwise, we will soon be taking our vehicle to the mechanic. Our body is a machine that runs 24/7 and it needs clean food to be able to run properly otherwise, we will also be at the doctors. We need to return to clean cooking and mindful eating, which has many more benefits to our body. One small step at a time, is all it takes.
What’s one sweet treat you love making that guests always seem to enjoy?
The one sweet treat that guest consistently comment on is the Lemon Pancakes served at breakfast. They are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, and are served with our berry compote and coconut yoghurt, making them the perfect combination. Guests often mention how much they love the fresh lemon flavour, as well as how moist and fluffy the pancakes are. Many are surprised to learn they’re gluten-free and vegan, as they can’t taste the difference.
Is there a moment with guests or the team that has stayed with you over the years?
When I first started, I thought guests came to Billabong simply for a getaway. After attending a yoga class where we were asked to introduce ourselves and share why we were there, one guest spoke about how her marriage was struggling. That moment made me realise that people come here for many different reasons. Since then, I’ve made sure to give the guest 110% because you never truly know what someone may be going through.
