Neil and Danielle McFarlane take over Shaw’s Meats at Gympie Central
An award-winning butchery in Gympie has a new owner, who has worked his way up from a dishwashing job. Here’s how he’s preserving the family name … mostly.
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The new owner of a longstanding Gympie Central butchery made his start in the industry as a dishwasher at the age of 15.
Award-winning Gympie butchery of 45 years Shaw’s Meats has been taken over by Neil McFarlane, 37.
Former owners Len and Bev Shaw are going into “semi retirement” but the business is staying within the family with Neil being their nephew.
Neil has been the manager of the Central store for six years but looked forward to taking it on as owner with wife Danielle.
He first started at the family business at the age of 15 as a dishwasher.
After a few years of travelling, Neil returned to the butcher industry in his mid 20s, as manager for a Cairns store.
That was until he returned to Shaw’s Meats aged 31.
The store has now been renamed to McFarlane’s Gourmet Meats, with new signage and branding expected to roll out in the next week.
Neil said he is confident the new name will not deter people.
“We’ve got pretty loyal customers,” he said.
“We’ve had the same staff for the last 15 years too.”
Neil and Danielle mark the third generation of the Shaw family to own the shop.
Previous owners Len and Bev Shaw will continue to operate the Goldfields Plaza store.
In their Facebook announcement, the family received an outpouring of support from the local community.
“Best butcher ever!!! Always has been always will be!! For 20 years you guys have given us the best service and meat around so thank you,” one commenter said.
“Len and Bev you have built a fantastic business, the best meat, friendly service and the most amazing employers. Thank you so much,” another wrote.
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Originally published as Neil and Danielle McFarlane take over Shaw’s Meats at Gympie Central
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