Meet the duo baking their way into the hearts of Moonta
Nothing beats a good country bakery – it just hits differently, especially when it’s named Toogood. And in the case of this Moonta newbie, the name isn’t just clever branding, it’s also the surname of co-owner Andy Toogood. Right now, it’s feeling pretty accurate.
Moonta might be better known for its rich mining history, a holiday spot for keen fishers, and its stunning coastal views, but lately it’s been pulling a new crowd – one following the scent of freshly baked bread, jelly cakes, and nostalgia.
Toogood Bakery has quickly become a favourite among locals and day-trippers, slinging old-school country classics and doing it with a tonne of heart, hustle, and a few 1am starts.
Owners Andy Toogood and Ash Schmidt aren’t newcomers to the game, but opening a bakery in a regional town they barely knew was always going to be a leap. “Every country town needs a local bakery,” Andy reckoned, and when he realised Moonta didn’t have one, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work.
What followed was a gutsy revamp of a former bike shop, plenty of elbow grease, and a whole lot of learning on the fly. With just the two of them on the tools (and by tools, I mean trays and tongs), Toogood Bakery proudly bakes everything from scratch – no pre-mix shortcuts or trucked-in pastry.
Now, just six months in, Toogood Bakery has well and truly found its groove. There were a few nerves not knowing if the summer rush would turn into a winter lull – but the locals have embraced the bakery like it’s been there forever. It’s early days, but they’re already kicking serious goals.
And even though these talented, award-winning bakers can whip up the fanciest baked feasts, it’s the old-school favourites that fly out the door.
“It’s kinda 1980s baking here at Toogood – pies, pastie slice, jelly cakes and Kitchener buns. We can do fancy, but people just want the good old fashioned stuff.”
It’s not just the food that’s drawing praise – it’s the way Toogood Bakery has mixed into the community. Locals have wrapped their arms around the business, and in true country style, Andy and Ash have wrapped them right back. They’re supplying pies to the footy club canteen, jumping in for netball fundraisers, and saying yes to the kinds of things city businesses might politely ignore.
Any regrets about making a sea change and starting a business in the country? Not a crumb. Andy reckons more people should give it a go because there’s something pretty special about building a business from scratch in a town that gets behind you.
So go on, take a trip to Moonta and wrap your laughing gear around a jelly cake. It’s just ‘too good’ to miss.
Toogood Bakery
Where: 49 George Street, Moonta
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 7am-2pm
For more info, click here
