FRESH PROVISIONS
Associate - Business
Tom Katselas, Director & Cheese Geek
Fresh Provisions is based in WA with 2 stores specialising in fresh produce, hard to find gourmet groceries and artisan deli lines including a vast array of fresh breads and specialty cheese.
How did you get started in the industry?
We are a second generation family business taking our grounding and training from our European parents. Our stores are our personal pantry and our 2 sites have been operating for the last 26 years in Perth.
What is your favourite Australian cheese?
Pyengana Cheddar, Shadows of Blue, Shaw River Buffalo Mozzarella. Sorry couldn't stop at just one :)
What opportunities do you see for the future of the Australian specialty/artisan cheese industry?
After visiting Slow Food "Cheese" in 2013, I think Australia is still in its infant stages with so much to offer the world. They just need to see what we are doing in Australia as we do have the quality to match our overseas counterparts.
I still think consumers are unaware of the great artisan cheese made and available within Australia. It is an education process which retailers such as myself go a long way in filling a gap in the market as we are in the firing line with the customer. Cheesemakers do their best to educate consumers but it is retailers that have the personal connection with the final destination day in day out. I also think there are not enough specialty cheese stores like I've seen over seas to promote Australian cheese but all in good time.
What does being part of ASCA mean to you?
It's a way of keeping in touch with what is being developed on the land and how this is brought to our tables. Also, I can keep in touch with like minded people that have an interest in cheese and not feel like a cheese geek or curd nerd :)
website: www.provisions.com.au/wp/