It is exactly why Riverbank Moama went from a scratch-built startup in the middle of a pandemic to taking home top honours at the Campaspe Murray Business Awards.
Riverbank claimed the prestigious Rich River Golf Club Hospitality Award, a recognition co-owner Nikki Cohen accepted in a state of delighted shock.
“The award means everything for the staff — it’s recognition for the hard work everyone puts in trying to serve our community and our guests,” Nikki said.
Adding to the night’s triumphs, Riverbank’s Vienna Lelei Castilla was also named employee of the year.
The story of Riverbank is one of true small-business grit. After launching in 2021 during COVID-19 and through a challenging personal time, co-owners Nikki and Paul Cohen started the restaurant with just $10,000 in the bank.
Nikki said every single cent which wasn't tied up in taxes, goods, or wages was poured straight back into the business.
“We gradually went from Bunnings tables and old wonky chairs to comfy chairs and nice tables,” Nikki said. “From domestic hand-me-downs of old fridges and freezers out the back — moving things around every day when an order came in — to walk-in cool rooms and freezers. We’re pretty proud of the resilience and commitment of obviously myself, and especially my husband.”
Nikki and Paul bring a combined 40-plus years of culinary passion to Riverbank.
Having been together for over 30 years after fittingly meeting in a kitchen, they run the restaurant as a true family operation alongside their daughter, Jess Campbell, who handles the business’ marketing.
Today, a team of seven in the kitchen and about nine on the floor work together to create everything on-site — from sauces to those oh, so sweet desserts.
Set in a stunning natural environment on the river, surrounded with native bird life, Riverbank’s success is anchored by its loyal local patrons.
“The locals have been extraordinary to us,” Nikki said. “We regard them as our friends, not just customers, and we serve them as if they’re in our house.”
“Every year, we morph into something different from our original business plan, but our commitment to looking after people never changes.”
Nikki and Paul expressed thanks and gratitude to the Perry family of Moama Waters Caravan Park, their hard-working team, and the wider Echuca-Moama community for supporting their small business every step of the way.
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