Cafe Nova and Gallery hits the real estate market
Retirement is singing out for two cafe owners who are hoping to pass their retro business onto new youngblood.
Townsville
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Retirement is singing out for two cafe owners who are hoping to pass their retro business onto new, young blood.
Cafe Nova and Gallery owners Allen Bedford and David Ollett bought the Blackwood St business in 2015, injecting new life into the 32 year old establishment.
When the duo took over, the licensed cafe was empty and in only five years they have turned a blank canvas into a retro time capsule.
The cafe is adorned with old relics and rich history donated by their customers including pictures, record players and statues.
After spending 45 years in the hospitality industry, Mr Bedford said he would miss the social aspect of owning his own cafe.
“All the customers are our friends and it is fun to come to work,” he said.
“Out biggest seller is our homemade caramel tart and we have a saying, ‘the old tarts come for the caramel tarts’,” he said.
The business is currently listed for sale with North Queensland Business Sales.
The decision to sell the business comes at a time in Mr Bedford and Mr Ollett’s lives to take a step back and enjoy their golden years.
Even when the duo retire, Mr Bedford said they had grand plans for their future.
“We are both 65 and we are ready for retirement. It is time to move on for new blood and there is lots of opportunity for the new owners being so close to the stadium and the city,” he said.
“We are definitely ready for a year of travelling around Queensland in our motorhome.”
With more than three decades serving the Townsville community, Mr Bedford said he had heard countless stories from his regulars.
“The parents bring their kids here to show them where they went as teenagers,” he said.
“At the back it used to have a stage and they would have musicians sing and play folk music.”
elisabeth.silvester1@news.com.au
Originally published as Cafe Nova and Gallery hits the real estate market
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