No road trip down the South Coast is complete without a stop at the historic town of Tilba. As you turn off the highway, the Jersey cows of Tilba Dairy can be seen grazing on the abundant pastures of the Tilba Valley. Through a windy, wooded road you arrive at the ABC Cheese Factory where Tilba Dairy make their high-quality, and much loved South Coast milk, yoghurt and cheese.
Owners Nic and Erica Dibden have been dairying for 18 years and are passionate about keeping local, and producing to the highest standards they can. “We maintain integrity by not growing too big, so we know exactly the quality of the pasture, the health of the cows and ultimately the quality of the milk,” Erica says.
Tilba Dairy also looks at the big picture of South Coast food, with their production process on display in the factory to help educate the public about dairy and the importance of high-quality local food. “We are small producers with a philosophy directly in line with the slow food movement, food integrity and sustainability. We are very excited about bringing cheese-making back to the Tilba Valley, and providing the public with an insight into agriculture and what is involved with producing food,” Erica explains. It’s philosophies like these that contribute to such a rich and vibrant South Coast food culture.