Vanessa ‘Ness’ Hicks opens new cafe Dusty’s Clifton, Toowoomba with co-working business hub, markets

When one woman first laid her eyes on a space filled with rich history, she instantly knew it was the perfect site for her new business. After she devoted love and attention to the store, her unique venture will open in the coming days.

When Vanessa ‘Ness’ Hicks first entered the site where she hoped to set up her new cafe she instantly fell in love with the vibe, despite the layers of grease and dust left behind.

Ironically, there are many layers to her new business Dusty’s Clifton which goes far beyond the traditional concept of a cafe.

In addition to serving coffee, cakes, slices and sandwiches, the new business will also serve as a co-working hub and collective for artisans to showcase their creations.

Offering patrons a space to relax, Ms Hicks, 43, said Dusty’s Clifton was all about connecting with others and feeling right at home.

Vanessa Hicks is excited to bring Dusty's Clifton - a cafe, co-working hub and creative space to the community. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“The rule of thumb at our place is to come in, kick off your boots, make yourself at home and have a chat,” Ms Hicks said.

“(I’m passionate about supporting small businesses) because I think everyone has a story and that should be shared within the community but also further afield.”

While she grew up in the city, Ms Hicks said the country lifestyle has always drawn her back due to its community spirit.

Living in the Toowoomba region for almost 15 years, the new business owner currently lives in Plainland but is looking to relocate to Clifton in the near future.

Formerly the site of a service station and motorbike workshop, Ms Hicks said she was drawn to the space because of its rich history.

“Because of what the shop was used for before, it was filled with grease and dust and it took us about three weeks to get rid of it all,” she said.

“That’s when we knew we had to call the cafe Dusty’s … although (country musician) Dusty Springfield will get a play on Spotify every now and then too.”

Basic renovations commenced in November with Ms Hicks keen to preserve the rustic style of the space, with a few modern touches.

The cafe will be available to hire for events and will also host art classes and other fun workshops in the future.

Vanessa Hicks is excited to bring Dusty's Clifton - a cafe, co-working hub and creative space to the community. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Ms Clifton also owns building certification and property development company BuiltForm Boutique.

Dusty’s Clifton will officially open on Saturday with the launch party including live music, markets and treats for the kids to enjoy.

Open from 7am to 1pm Thursday to Sunday, the business is at 48 Clark St, Clifton.