Chef, author and entrepreneur
Everything we do boosts the local economy and brings an enormous, revitalised spirit to our town.
Tell us your story – how did you get here?
My dad brought the family to Bali on a holiday in January, 1975. He decided it was time to have a tropical adventure – and that it certainly was. We arrived in wild, overgrown Ubud – my mum, dad, brother, sister and me. It was our first time out of Australia. I guess you could say it was life-changing! I returned in 1984 and met my Balinese husband on my second day, and since then, I’ve never really left.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I guess the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is the accomplishment I am most proud of, and this year we turned 20! It has been an incredible, all-encompassing learning journey and one I wouldn’t change for the world. There is also the Ubud Food Festival, three days of deliciousness. My four beautiful, smart, hilarious children are my other major accomplishments that I am also truly proud of.
What impact have you made in Bali?
I like to think I have nurtured a literary and culinary community in Bali, that I have helped put Ubud on the map as an exciting hub where great minds, leading writers and creatives from Indonesia and beyond, meet. The Ubud Food Festival brings in chefs and foodies on all levels. Everything we do boosts the local economy and brings an enormous, revitalised spirit to our town.
What does the future look like for you?
I’m about to be a Grandma which will be a whole new exciting role for me, I can’t wait! I have also started to travel around Indonesia again and don’t intend to stop. My spice island tours are also something that am passionate about and I am keen to explore more places and run more food tours.
What do you love most about Bali?
I absolutely love the people and the rich culture. I love that family and community are paramount, that these are the things that truly matter.
If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
I would probably advise myself to have more holidays… Or at least to take Sundays off!
Who is your Local Legend and why?
I think Ibu Oka, of Babi Guling fame, in Ubud, is a local legend. Her hard work and dedication has turned the family business into a huge, ongoing success. She has put Ubud on the serious foodie map and her place is always jam-packed with visitors.