Western Food Group — company behind The Bunker bar, cafe, restaurant chain — placed into liquidation

A popular bar, restaurant and cafe chain is set to change hands after the company behind it suddenly went into liquidation. This is why.

The Bunker is set to change hands after the company that runs it went into liquidation. Pictured is its Castlereagh location, one of four across the Penrith and Blue Mountains areas. Picture: Elizabeth Neil

A popular bar, restaurant and cafe chain will change hands, with the company behind the venues set to be wound up.

Western Food Group, which runs The Bunker, was placed into liquidation last Wednesday, when two liquidators were appointed.

The popular eatery has four locations in the Penrith and Blue Mountains areas.

All four outlets — in Castlereagh, Springwood, Mulgoa and Leura — were reportedly closed on Friday.

In a statement posted to The Bunker’s Facebook page the following night, Western Food Group said it had decided to transfer ownership of the chain because director Ross Purser’s divorce had “impacted his ability to retain the business”.

The Bunker’s Castlereagh location. Picture: Elizabeth Neil

“Ross has prioritised securing the jobs of the 118 staff members, ensuring continuity for employees and customers alike,” the statement read.

“The current management team is set to transition into ownership, guiding a successful and growing business into its next chapter.”

Mr Purser said in the statement his priority was to ensure employees were supported during the handover process.

“The timing of this decision was challenging; however, it was made to ensure that all staff are properly positioned to receive the full range of benefits they are entitled to,” he said.

“Superannuation that has fallen behind over the past six months has been prioritised and will be guaranteed from the proceeds of the sale of my assets.

“Additionally, three weeks of back pay will be secured through either the Fair Entitlements Guarantee (FEG) or the new ownership.”

A sign on the locked gate leading into the carpark at The Bunker's Castlereagh location on Monday. Picture: Elizabeth Neil

Mr Purser thanked patrons for their continued support over the last decade, during which he employed more than 1100 people.

He described the backing of locals as “the backbone of (the venue’s) operations”.

“We are incredibly grateful for the loyalty and encouragement we’ve received from our customers, partners and local communities,” he said.

“We remain committed to honouring that trust as we explore pathways for renewal.”

The statement said Mr Purser was working closely with suppliers, especially those without insurance or with minimal outstanding balances, to “find resolution”.

The Bunker is expected to resume trading as early as this week, though the Castlereagh venue remained closed on Monday.

“Sorry for any inconvenience,” a sign on the locked gate leading to the carpark said.

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