How the locals like it

Natalia Adams,
Mataya Eatery

I’ve always moved around; working remotely, having a mobile office. I love new and different experiences and finding unique spots with creative energy.

Natalia Adams, Mataya Eatery

Returning to Western Australia from over east around six years ago, I visited Mandurah even though I hadn’t been for years and didn’t know anyone who lived there.

It had instant appeal – a bit of country and a bit of city, close to Perth and on the water. So, I bought a block of land and built a home.

With a change in location I started concentrating on what I wanted the next part of my life to look like; how to express and develop my interests.

I noticed there was a great opportunity here to develop Mandurah’s food culture and tie it back into the community.

Having worked in the agriculture industry for 10 years, I have a true understanding of what ‘paddock to plate’ really means and understand business and the value of local producers and growers so, despite having no background in hospitality, I started Mataya Eatery.

I recruited a really strong team and over our three-year journey to date, the response has been fantastic. Our philosophy is centred around creating fresh and equally wholesome food. We believe that life should be about balance, not one fad diet, style of food or ‘on trend’ product should ever entirely consume you. It seems to really resonate with all our customers whether they’re regulars or just in town for the day.

One of the things I’m most proud of is that we’ve been able to realise the vision of activating the space around Mataya with a weekend market. It’s fantastic to see the authentic connections between producers, consumers and the community. This is an eco-friendly and sustainable project we at Mataya Eatery believe deeply in.

We are a family and pet friendly eatery so we see a lot of day-trippers who are out and about to check out all the fabulous things Mandurah has to offer.

I’m so glad I made the move here. Not only can I grow my business passion, but I also get to indulge my favourite activities, right on my doorstep; long walks, camp sites that also welcome my dog, and a cheeky cider and great food along the way.

Nat’s top tips for visitors

  • Head out bush and go camping at Dwellingup or Waroona
  • Take in an amazing sunset at White Hill beach
  • Check out Frisky Deer Interiors and grab a little something special for yourself
  • And of course, check out the Growers and Makers Market at Mataya and grab a coffee and some beautiful, fresh local produce

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