A new business is set to bring a burst of creativity and much-needed services to Coober Pedy, with “Two Minute Noodlers” opening on the corner of Hutchison Street and St Nicholas Street.
The brainchild of local identity Mick Watson and his partner Von, the new venture blends the town’s proud fossicking tradition of “noodling” with a playful nod to the humble two-minute noodle. The result is a concept that is as uniquely Coober Pedy as the opal fields themselves.
But this isn’t just about clever branding. The pair are packing an impressive number of services into one small block of land — something locals and travellers alike have been calling out for.
Among the offerings will be caravan, car and dog wash facilities, a laundromat, and a shop stocked with what the owners promise will be a range of “oddities.” Anyone who knows Mick and Von will understand that the word oddities probably means visitors are in for something far more interesting than your average roadside shop.
In addition, trailers, plant and equipment, and bikes will be available for hire, with plans already underway for a hairdresser and even a bakery in the not-too-distant future.
For a town that often struggles to access everyday conveniences, the idea of so many practical services in one location is a welcome development. From travellers needing a wash and laundry stop, to locals looking for equipment hire or something unusual for the home, Two Minute Noodlers appears poised to fill several gaps at once.
And then, of course, there’s the giant predator-alien creature looming over the business — a sight that has already raised a few eyebrows from passing motorists. Whether it’s guarding the premises or simply keeping an eye out for anyone who hasn’t paid for their camel sitting remains to be seen, but it certainly ensures the new business won’t be hard to find.
All jokes aside, ventures like this are exactly the kind of fresh, creative thinking that adds character and value to the town.
Congratulations to Mick and Von for bringing their vision to life. If their reputation for doing things a little differently is anything to go by, Two Minute Noodlers is going to be one of the more interesting stops in Coober Pedy.