A beloved Australian sweet, absent from store shelves for a quarter-century, is making a triumphant return thanks to Kyabram’s own Willy Wonka.
Though his factory may not rival Wonka’s chocolate empire in size, Steve Scott shares the same passion for crafting magical confections.
In this case, he will be bringing back some Australian nostalgia in the form of Eucalyptus Diamonds.
Melbourne Rock Candy Company, based in Kyabram on Allan St, has been working away at bringing back the iconic Eucalyptus Diamond sweets since they were dropped from stores 25 years ago.
“We’ve had customers asking for Eucalyptus Diamonds for years, so we knew there was a solid demand,” Mr Scott said.
This uniquely Australian treat captures the essence of our native eucalyptus trees, which blanket our landscape.
They used to be produced by Allen’s Lollies almost a century ago before Lagoon Cofectionary took over production in the mid-’90s.
For 25 years, the sweets disappeared from shelves until now.
The Melbourne Rock Candy Company was able to acquire the correct machinery and the original recipe to bring these classic treats back.
“When we had the opportunity to purchase the original equipment, we knew it was time to bring them back, which is incredibly exciting,” Mr Scott said.
“We’re using the same recipe, so it’s a real taste of nostalgia.”
While the robust eucalyptus, menthol-like flavour may be an acquired taste, Mr Scott is a fan of the treat.
“Eucalyptus is one of those things where a lot of people have never tried it … but if they try it – they really like it,” he said.
The Melbourne Rock Candy Company has been around since 1977 and specialises in traditional rock candy, hardened sugar made in various delicious flavours.
Mr Scott said it was able to bring back this classic Australian treat due to its focus on rock candy.
“A lot for these old lollies like poly waffles ... (other companies) stopped producing them for one reason or another, but there is still a market for them — so if we can make them, which we can, we’re going to make it happen,” he said.
“With just one taste, you’re transported back to the first time you enjoyed it. It’s a sweet piece of nostalgia that every generation can appreciate, whether it’s grandparents reminiscing about their youth or adults recalling the lollies they used to buy in the ’80s and ’90s.
“Now, the next generation gets to experience the joy of an Australian classic. We can’t wait to hear the reactions when customers taste the Eucalyptus Diamonds.”
The Eucalyptus Diamonds are making their revival at the Melbourne Royal Show from September 26 to October 6.
For those unable to visit Melbourne, rest assured — Eucalyptus Diamonds are now a permanent offering, available for purchase at any time.