Locals embrace takeaway and delivery meal options

Not sure what to have for dinner? Scroll through the ‘Surfcoast Takeaway & Delivery Options’ Facebook group and you’ll find plenty of mouth-watering inspiration.

As soon as the social distancing restrictions came into effect, Torquay’s Laura Knight jumped straight onto Facebook and set up this group in support of local businesses that the Surf Coast Shire community has embraced.
It allows people to find and share information and photos as well as offer recommendations about local businesses providing takeaway and delivery options.
Created just over a month ago, the group now has more than 2,900 members, with regular updates of specials and other information.
Laura said she started the group simply to “help local business in the community” where she grew up – a sentiment shared by fellow local, Shelley Pittendrigh, who helps to manage the group.
The group’s success is a reflection of the power of social media and “how this community wants to support local businesses in what’s really a difficult time for them”, Laura added.
Locals have embraced the increased takeaway and delivery options, including those living in parts of the shire such as Aireys Inlet, who haven’t been able to enjoy the luxury of home delivered meals until now.
Helen Berry, a 20-year resident of Aireys Inlet, is grateful so many businesses have quickly adapted and said those changes have enabled locals to more easily cope with the restrictions.
“Here in Aireys Little Feast, Yam Daisy, Aireys Virtual Market, Pete’s Wood-Fired Pizza, The Captain Pizzas, and the pub – which is delivering from their bottle shop – have all changed how they work, and are making it easier for us to deal with the situation.
“It’s just gold to have the businesses providing takeaway and home delivery. From talking to people (on the phone) and seeing what’s on the Aireys Facebook group, residents are also sharing it around among the businesses, and it’s created a lovely community feel during what’s a difficult time,” she added.
The council has also set up a new website – BuySurfCoast.com.au – which features a comprehensive online directory of more than 400 Surf Coast businesses, and the ways they’re adapting during the pandemic. #BuySurfCoast and support our local businesses.