The owners of a much-loved Lennox Head eatery that was badly damaged in a kitchen fire say they have been blown away by the outpouring of community support which will allow them to reopen within weeks.
The team from Rustic Char were devastated when the January 16 fire forced them to close the doors of their Ballina Street shop less than nine months after opening.
Co-owners Ludo and Byron feared their dream was over after the fire, with repairs likely to run into the thousands of dollars and take months to complete.
But the local community sprang to their aid, with donations pouring in via a GoFundMe page set up by a couple of friends.
In the ensuing weeks, nearly $20,000 was donated to fund the repairs and support the owners while they were being undertaken.
Incredibly, nearly half of this amount poured in within the first 24 hours. Ludo and Byron now say they’re going to reopen the business.
‘This has been a labour of love and commitment that has turned into a nightmare beyond our control,’ the pair said in a statement on behalf of the Rustic Char team.
‘We didn’t think we would be able to go on but none of you would have it. Because of the love and support of each and every one of you we hope to continue our journey.
‘We are especially thankful to be a part of this amazingly beautiful community.
‘Thank you for being awesome and for giving us the support to continue our dream of feeding you beautiful food.’
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