SUSHIKO MANAGING TO STAY AFLOAT IN TOUGH TIMES NAOMI AND KOICHI SATO The widespread flooding experienced in northern New South Wales and south east Queensland in March of this year was unprecedented in its scale and impact, leaving families, businesses and entire communities reeling from the effects of its devastation. One such local business affected was Sushiko, the well known and well-loved Japanese restaurant situated in Short Street, Port Macquarie. Tragically, this was the second time the acclaimed restaurant had been devastated by severe flooding. In November 2013 the business was overwhelmed by heavy rains and subsequent floods that resulted in a heart-breaking setback.
Coping with the first flood in 2013 was stressful and painful but Naomi and Ko managed to pull through. Getting hit again earlier this year was almost catastrophic. The flood waters reached a metre high and gutted the entire restaurant and kitchen. Tables, chairs, cabinets, dishes, fridges, freezer, food, everything was ruined. “When I opened the door everything was upside down,” lamented Naomi. “We had to throw everything out.” The floods had caused extensive damage and Naomi estimates overall losses to the business between $40-45,000. Without their kitchen there was no way to store, prepare or serve food and consequently no income being made through the restaurant. However, after the initial shock had subsided, Naomi and Ko decided to start the rebuilding process once again. It was a slow,
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painful ordeal but, thankfully, help was at hand as the community rallied around the couple, insisting that the local landmark reopen.
‘COMMUNITY SPIRIT’ It is often said that out of adversity comes strength and the community spirit that was demonstrated to help Naomi and Ko was beyond impressive - something that clearly touched the restaurant’s owners. “On behalf of Ko, Naomi and the wider Sushiko team, we would like to thank the community for their support and generosity throughout this difficult time,” the Sushiko Facebook page posted on May 17.
