Community News

Rods Bakery in the heart of Lara is a bustling shop, adored by locals and visitors alike. Not just another bread shop, Rod’s – as it is known by the locals – is a thriving establishment that has been operating for over 11 years.

 

Owner and operator, Rod Carlin, has an extensive background in the food industry. Growing up in Casterton, Victoria, Rod started working with Lara’s Quality Meats, then did his apprenticeship at Mangans Bakery, and moved around to gain experience at several other bakeries throughout rural Victoria.  Rod eventually went on to work for Woolworths and throughout his 10 years there worked his way up to being a trade specialist in charge of bakeries and delicatessens. It is this experience that he has brought to Rod’s Bakery in Lara and why people keep coming back time and time again.

Rod said of his Woolworths’ experience, “I suppose my time there is a big part of my success. Customers seem to like supermarket style structure and discipline, commodity grouping and all lines ticketed. We pride ourselves not only on producing great product but also on serving our customers in an efficient, friendly manner and consistently providing them with a great experience”.

Rod’s huge range of baked goods will keep your appetite satisfied whatever bakery item you are looking for. You can’t go past their avocado focaccia and chicken rolls – these are very popular among the locals for lunch.

With fantastic coffee available, with selections such as croissants, cinnamon scrolls, donuts, quiche Lorraine’s and date scones. If you want to pick up treats or meals for home, there is a large variety of bread loaves and rolls, as well as tarts, cakes, family pies and pastries.

So what makes a good baker? Rod said, “I think, probably like anything – you just have to care about what you do and not accept anything that’s sub-standard. We’re very fussy about our quality and freshness.”

Rod’s Bakery at Lara – delicious baked good and treats for all of your lockdown needs!