Popular South Stradbroke Island cafe’s shock kitchen announcement

There has been a major development in the Tipplers cafe kitchen closure, but not everyone is happy with the outcome. Find out what's happened

A popular island cafe has announced the reopening of its kitchen and a new menu - but not everyone is happy with the changes.

Last week, Tipplers - South Stradbroke announced the closure of its kitchen until further notice, blaming a “dispute” with city council.

“Tipplers Cafe is unable to cater at its previous full potential safely, due to an unresolved contractual dispute with the City of Gold Coast, which has escalated into a health and safety risk,” the statement posted to Facebook read.

The post attracted hundreds of comments from disappointed and shocked customers.

But in an update on Thursday, cafe management announced the kitchen had reopened with a new-look menu.

“Our pivot is complete,” a post on the cafe’s Facebook page read, alongside a photo of the new menu.

“Not the ideal outcome, but it allows us to open the kitchen for meals again and sell you a beer.”

An update posted to the Tipplers Facebook page.

The post attracted mixed reviews, with some praising the reopening while others questioned the new menu.

“Great news, disappointed the seafood basket isn’t on the menu,” Geoff Ferris said.

“Shame about the price skyrocket,” Shan Martin said.

“The two things I’ve purchased for many years now, are no longer on the menu - steak sanga, nice cold Corona,” Rob Gimm commented.

Others expressed their relief over the announcement.

“I am sure when the problems get ironed out other items will return to the menu,” Paul Gibbs said.

“Just happy to see Tipplers going again.”

“Congratulations guys. So glad to have my second home back,” Nigel Mclaughlan said.

Cafe management and council were contacted for further comment on the matter, but both parties said they were unable to elaborate on what caused the kitchen closure.

Earlier this week, a council spokeswoman said: “contract arrangements are confidential and as such it would be inappropriate to comment further.”

Tipplers resort on South Stradbroke Island in 2011.

Tipplers South Stradbroke reveals shock closure - January 18

Gold Coast City Council says it is seeking legal advice after a popular island cafe announced the closure of its kitchen, blaming a “dispute” with City Hall.

In a statement posted to its Facebook page on Saturday night, Tipplers - South Stradbroke Island said their kitchen would be closed until further notice.

“Tipplers Cafe is unable to cater at its previous full potential safely, due to an unresolved contractual dispute with the City of Gold Coast, which has escalated into a health and safety risk,” the statement read.

“Coffee window is still open.

“Scott, Bec and the team sincerely apologise to our amazing boating community and are currently doing everything we can to be back up and running as normal as soon as possible.”

Tipplers - South Stradbroke Island. Picture: Gold Coast Tourist Parks

The post received 150 shares and more than 300 comments.

The Bulletin contacted the cafe for further comment, but management said it was unable to elaborate on the issue.

A council spokeswoman said the city was seeking legal advice in relation to the “social media commentary.”

“The matters put forward by the contractor have not been raised with the city as a contractual dispute nor do they represent a significant health and safety issue,” she said.

“Contract arrangements are confidential and as such it would be inappropriate to comment further.”

Elissa Jol delivering some tasty food to customers at Tipplers back in 2017. Picture: Richard Gosling

Tipplers is a popular tourist spot on South Stradbroke Island owned by council and features campgrounds, a restaurant and bar.

These are run by a contractor.

Council controversially bought the site in March 2009 and closed it to the public.

A kiosk and reception area opened at Tipplers in December that year, followed by the cafe in 2012.

The area’s dilapidated tavern was demolished after it was deemed unsafe.

In 2017 the Bulletin reported city leaders planned to brand the island destination as one of the Gold Coast’s hidden gems.

A visit to Tipplers back in 2017. Picture: Richard Gosling

This is what some people had to say about the kitchen closure announcement:

Peter Matkovic: “That sucks you guys do such an amazing job and I love going there. If there’s anything we can do to help you get back up and running, willing to help.”

Michael Selby: “Terrible to hear. You guys run an amazing business and we love frequenting your establishment. Hope you are up and running again soon for you and your staff’s sake.”

Lesley White-jennings: “This is very sad news. This place is somewhere many GC people enjoy spending their weekends listening to music and having food and drinks. Hope you can find a solution quickly.”

Carla Wickham: “Tipplers is amazing. Great food and friendly staff. Hopefully things can be resolved quickly.”

Richelle Templar: “So sorry to hear this! Terrible news. Good luck and hope you’re back up and running soon.”

Luke Courtney: “Sorry to hear, you guys do (an) amazing job. Best meals on the Gold Coast.”

Jodee Dianne: “Living in Sydney and regularly visiting family in Runaway Bay, Tipplers is the one place I always make sure to visit. We should be so lucky to have such a place in Sydney.”

Shivon Thorpe: “Devastated to read this! You guys have great food and we always enjoy stopping in.”