Emerging from a single Indigenous mother’s kitchen bench, the allergen-friendly food brand Cooee is taking to the skies to showcase native Australian flavours through a new Qantas partnership.
Beginning today, the major partnership with Qantas will see Cooee’s beloved Nan’s Jam Drop cookie, infused with native Davidson plum, served to passengers on domestic flights.
Over the next 12 months, more than 500,000 cookies will be enjoyed, starting with all flights departing Perth before expanding nationally on a rotating six-week catering cycle.
The woman behind this thriving brand is Wiradjuri entrepreneur Terri-Ann “Tezzi” Daniel, who has managed to turn a simple idea into one of Australia’s fastest-growing inclusive food brands.
As a mother of eight, including triplets with severe food allergies, Tezzi’s idea for Cooee sprung from the desire to create treats that everyone in her family could enjoy.
She began experimenting with gluten and allergen-friendly recipes, with a weekly budget of just $17.90.
Despite the small budget, her first creation became an instant bestseller and started the foundation for the fast-growing national business.
“I learned to make jam drops beside my grandmother. Sharing those flavours and our Indigenous story with half a million Australians in the air is truly surreal,” Tezzi said.
“Our cookies were created so everyone, regardless of allergies or dietary needs, could enjoy a great treat. Seeing them take flight on Qantas proves that inclusive food can also be extraordinary food.”
A recipe for success
Celebrating native Australian botanicals, Cooee’s products have ingredients such as wattleseed, Kakadu plum and finger lime.
The Miyagan Collection (Wiradjuri for “family”) highlights nostalgic flavours like Nan’s Jam Drop and Jude’s Vanilla Cream (finger lime), with the company having also expanded into popcorn and Bunji pet treats, now available at Bunnings.
Found in Woolworths Metro, Ampol Foodary, IGA and Spar QLD, Cooee will soon launch family-size packs through Metcash.
Along with the exciting new Qantas partnership, Cooee has attracted attention from major investors, including $1.5 million from Ochre Ventures to support national expansion and upcoming acquisitions.
Cooee’s leadership team include Chair Anthony Owen and board member Hamish Thompsion, former Vice President of Mars, who each bring extensive experience in FMCG and retail strategy.
“We have built Cooee with community at its core,” said Tezzi.
“From our first local shoppers to major investors, our journey proves that celebrating Indigenous heritage and prioritising inclusive food is a recipe for success.”