Where did it all begin for Tara?
I have always thrived off providing the Central Coast with unique and memorable dining experiences through my venues. And, the fact that I bring over 20 years of experience to the table (pun intended), I am confident in calling myself a leader within the hospitality industry.
You see, I struggled to fit in at school and had difficulties learning or applying myself to anything in particular, with the exclusion of hospitality. At the very young age of 12, I began my hospitality journey working in a local beach side café doing dishes. I remember that day with complete clarity–I was so inspired by the vibe and energy the café had and excitedly told my parents that I was going to buy that café one day. But even with my enthusiasm and commitment to the hospitality industry, I was always told that I should try harder in life and shouldn’t limit myself to “only working in hospitality”.
Those outside voices made me leave the industry on and off–I tried a desk job, childcare, and even tried to become a motorbike mechanic at one stage.
But nothing stuck, and I kept coming back to my passion.
Fast forward to when I was 23 years old and a single mother to my son, I successfully opened my very first business–despite the doubts and negative push back from the people around me. In the years since, I’ve launched multiple different hospitality brands, have employed over 700 people, and have been awarded one of the ‘Best and Brightest Young Food Service Professionals in Australia’ in the ‘30 Under 30’ program.
With over 10 years of successful business ownership, I can honestly say that I have set the record straight for anyone who ever doubted me by raising the standard of Central Coast dining experiences. I am also a very proud leader and mentor for youth and young adults in the food service industry and love watching my people flourish under my leadership.
