SUSHIKO MANAGING TO STAY AFLOAT IN TOUGH TIMES

The widespread flooding experienced in northern New South Wales and south east Queensland in March of this year was unprecedented in its scale and impact, leaving families, businesses and entire communities reeling from the effects of its devastation.

One such local business affected was Sushiko, the well known and well-loved Japanese restaurant situated in Short Street, Port Macquarie.

Tragically, this was the second time the acclaimed restaurant had been devastated by severe flooding. In November 2013 the business was overwhelmed by heavy rains and subsequent floods that resulted in a heart-breaking setback.

Coping with the first flood in 2013 was stressful and painful but Naomi and Ko managed to pull through. Getting hit again earlier this year was almost catastrophic.

The flood waters reached a metre high and gutted the entire restaurant and kitchen. Tables, chairs, cabinets, dishes, fridges, freezer, food, everything was ruined.

The floods had caused extensive damage and Naomi estimates overall losses to the business between $40-45,000. Without their kitchen there was no way to store, prepare or serve food and consequently no income being made through the restaurant.

However, after the initial shock had subsided, Naomi and Ko decided to start the rebuilding process once again. It was a slow, painful ordeal but, thankfully, help was at hand as the community rallied around the couple, insisting that the local landmark reopen.

It is often said that out of adversity comes strength and the community spirit that was demonstrated to help Naomi and Ko was beyond impressive - something that clearly touched the restaurant’s owners.

“On behalf of Ko, Naomi and the wider Sushiko team, we would like to thank the community for their support and generosity throughout this difficult time,” the Sushiko Facebook page posted on May 17.

Sushiko reopened its doors for business on May 18, much to the delight of the local community.

Naomi and Ko have introduced a few tweaks to their business that they believe will not only improve the quality of their offerings and service but also leave a positive impression on the environment.

“We reopened with a focus on using recyclable food containers for our takeaway boxes which are made from corn and sugarcane and are delighted to be able to provide a more environmentally friendly and sustainable offering,” commented Naomi proudly.

“We are also using more natural ingredients for our sauces and marinades, which we believe is a positive,” she added.

Sushiko is open on weekdays for lunch between the hours of 11am to 2pm. The opening times may be limited but you will not hear anyone within the local community complaining. In fact quite the opposite, they are delighted that this family-run business has managed to rise above the waters of uncertainty and establish itself once more as one of the most beloved restaurants in the area.

LUNCH AT SUSHIKO

sushiko.cafeleader.com

www.facebook.com/Sushiko

+61 2 6583 3333

U 3 21 Short St, Port Macquarie, Australia