Salt Bar Bribie to close doors
AFTER a successful venture Christine Greggery and Desley Neilson are closing Salt Bar Bribie at Bongaree's doors and preparing to start a new chapter in their lives.
It's a decision they didn't make lightly but created an opportunity for them to go out on top.
"There are a number of reasons why we are closing the doors," Christine said. "Firstly Desley wants to retire but we were also in a position where it was time to renew the lease and we didn't feel comfortable renewing the lease in the current economic climate.
"We just felt it was time to move on and take some time for ourselves after sharing what has been an almost eight year journey with the community."
Salt Bar Bribie first started as a coffee shop in Benabrow Ave before moving to Woorim and branching out into a takeaway/bistro shop and then settling above the Waterways Motel as a restaurant about four years ago
"It has been quite an interesting learning curve, when we first started I had never made a coffee or used a cash register," Christine said.
"The style of our business changed with each location but it meant we adapted to a different style of business which was quite an adjustment when you think back.
Salt Bar Bribie is not only known for its fantastic meals but also their commitment to the arts.
"We have been big supporters of the arts over the years, allowing artists to showcase their work and also through music with live performances every Friday night organised by Keith Haigh and his team and also Locals Only one Sunday a month - giving our local artists a chance to shine.
"We hope someone else will support this fantastic event because we really need an outlet for talent here on Bribie."
Christine admits it will be hard to adjust to life after Salt Bar Bribie and she said she would miss interacting with customers.
"We have made a lot of friends," she said. "With customers you get to know them and hear their stories. We've watched children grow up, people get engaged, married and have babies and unfortunately we've had customers that have passed away.
As for life after The Salt Bar, with Desley tackling retirement Christine said she would now have more time to invest in her consulting business.
In their final week Christine said they would use the opportunity to say goodbye to their customers quietly.
"As a business we would like to thank Bribie Island and surrounds for your support over the years.
