Like many people on The Bellarine, I drive past Wallington's WRG (Water Rural Garden) on Grubb Road, several times, curious as to what is to be found inside this rather large building, beyond the obvious outdoor teasers to be seen on its premises such as garden soil, pavers, pots, statues and more.
Established by the Corless family, Wallington's is an Australian owned and operated family business which since 2004 has been supplying products to Geelong, Bellarine and surrounding areas, and continues to remain locally owned and operated.
What a great peace of mind and satisfying feeling it is to know that you are supporting local don't you agree?
Those that know me, know that not only am I a passionate photographer and blogger, but also an avid foodie!
I'm always on the lookout for more diverse and exciting foods, spices, condiments, and healthy ingredients to add to my pantry, as I enjoy cooking and creating not only new, but personal old favorite recipes in the kitchen, when I'm not out and about photographing our most beautiful and stunning surrounds.
After having seen a few tantalising social media posts, it was obvious that I needed to go and see for myself what was on offer at Wallington's Local Pantry.
Housed inside Wallington's WRG just inside in the front of the premises, you will find Wallington's Local Pantry, which proudly stocks a fine collection of our region's locally grown and made produce.
Upon entry, the friendly, welcoming gentleman near the entrance certainly made my day with his warm welcome and abundance of smiles, asking if I needed assistance. This was refreshing to see, as I am one to certainly appreciate sincere customer service.
Have you seen what it looks like inside Wallington's Pantry?
It certainly is impressive with its size, layout, organisation and variety. There is so much to explore in a not so extensive area.
I started to slowly survey all the items on the shelves to get an insight as to what items were available. Few familiar, and many not so familiar brands and labels are to be found.
I was in foodie heaven with all the diverse selections of olive oils, vinegars/balsamics, chutneys, jams, relishes, sauces, dressings, salts, herbs and spices - all the things that I enjoy perusing closely, exploring the plethora of tantalising flavour combinations.
What other produce did I catch sight of whilst browsing?
Without telling you too much, I can share that you will discover many more store provisions such as milk, cheeses, smallgoods, local honey, flours, grain infusions, seeds and nuts, teas and coffees, and a pleasant variety of fresh fruit and vegetables amid more nourishing eatables.
In conclusion, I couldn't possibly tell you everything that is available at Wallington's Local Pantry. My recommendation is to set aside some time to stop in and visit the Pantry in person, and be sure to take your time exploring all the tremendous stock to be found therein.
The location is convenient, and a big plus is that it has ample carparking.
So what did I purchase upon my visit?
I had to deeply contain myself as there was so much I wanted to bring home to try! It was a huge effort on my behalf to limit this particular visit to just a few selected items.
Unfortunately the only downside I felt needs a mention is that there is no sampling or taste testing, which I would have been thrilled to see, as then I would not have hesitated to purchase more. You never know in the future, it just might be introduced, and then my paypass card will definitely get a workout!
Going back to my enticing purchases on this particular day...
* Smoky Pomodoro Rub
* Middle Eastern Za'atar
* Chilli Oil Mix
* Balsamic Reduction
* Garlic Infused Extra Virgin Oil
* One Very Fresh Eggplant (I had already previously done my Fruit & Veg shopping, otherwise I would have brought more)
YES! I will definitely be stopping by regularly to try more tempting products, and who knows? I might just see you there!
Location:
370 Grubb Rd, Wallington VIC, 3222 (Housed inside Wallington's WRG)
Click here to visit Wallington's Local Pantry Facebook Page.
Thank-you for reading and I always look forward to putting together more articles related to our Beautiful Bellarine.
Esther - Life On the Bellarine
