Once upon a time, but not so very long ago, there was a man who took over a business.
The business was not only a rival to his previous employer, it was located next door. In many versions, this story would be a tragedy, with scenes of shock, horror, recrimination, and even legal action.
But this version of the story is a happy one. The man in the story is Jack Wright. He has taken over the Brunswick Burger & Fish Bar. Located in The Terrace, Brunswick Heads, across a laneway from his previous employer, The Hotel Brunswick, who are fully supportive of Jack’s new venture.
‘The hotel is like a big family,’ says Jack as he describes starting at the hotel as an 18-year-old ‘glassie’ before progressing through the ranks to become a bar manager.
His ex-boss, hotel licensee Kyle Douglas, confirms that there is no animosity. ‘I’m excited that Jack is operating a business of his own,’ Kyle says. ‘He is a hardworking young man who is down to earth, friendly and knowledgeable. He has the right attributes to succeed in Brunswick Heads, and the Hotel is happy to offer support and advice where necessary.’
Not only is this a good news local business support story, it is a story of a hard-working, go-getting member of Gen Y. Jack is just 26 (‘turning 27,’ he says). He has good business role models with his sister and brother-in-law running a successful food distribution company. He also has great support from other family and friends. ‘A chef friend helped me put together the menu,’ he says. ‘And a couple of mates helped me with the renovations.’
Jack is responsible for the renovation design, which includes pallet-style outdoor seating and a decorative wall of wood salvaged from an old Queenslander. Fittingly for his generation, he found inspiration via Instagram and Pinterest. He also did a tour of duty of the burger bars up and down the coast. ‘I ate a lot of chips,’ he laughs.
His chips are delicious, with a choice of regular or French-fry style, as well as sweet potato and tofu versions. Classic burgers are joined by ones based around pulled pork, teriyaki sauce and Cajun chicken. There will always be a vegetarian burger special and, of particular interest to families, there are $5 kid meals.
The business that Jack is building is likely to change its name later this year but the friendly service, fun vibe and good food will remain.
Brunswick Burger & Fish Bar, 10 The Terrace,
Brunswick Heads. Open 7 days 11am – 7/8pm.
6685 1210. Facebook: Brunswick Fish Bar
