A New Roast Rises at The Shed Life
From explosives to espresso — it’s not your typical career path but, for Dwayne Matthews, it’s a perfect fit. The explosives technician has swapped detonators for dark roasts, now crafting his own coffee right here in Narrandera.
Dwayne’s work has taken him all over Australia, but Narrandera is still the place he calls home. “I’ve had plenty of opportunities to move,” he says, “but the lifestyle here is unbeatable. You don’t have to be a millionaire to live well, we’ve got a great community and everything we need is right here.”
And that includes exceptional coffee. The Shed Life — part cafe, part 24-hour gym — has built a loyal following for its warm service and relaxed energy. Now, it’s also home to Narrandera’s only coffee roaster. Dwayne roasts beans from six origins, each with its own distinct flavour profile, roasted every Sunday to give the beans time to rest and mature before hitting the cup.
What started as a natural evolution from running a cafe, has turned into a genuine passion project. Dwayne partnered with Australian manufacturer Piccolo Chinook Coffee, choosing an airbed roaster over the traditional drum style for a cleaner, more consistent result. Every batch of beans is ethically sourced and sustainably farmed, adding another layer of care to every cup.
The community has rallied behind it, and word is spreading fast. Beans have already made their way down to Bega, with a Wagga cafe keen to start pouring soon. Online sales are on the horizon for next year — but for now, locals and visitors can enjoy something extra special. Pop in, for a taste of what Dwayne roasted last Sunday.
