Recycled Real Estate

I am fairly sure almost every town in Australia has one................an abandoned Bank of New South Wales [now Westpac] building.  Thankfully, when the decision was made to relocate the bank business to an instore branch in the town's drapery store, the building was purchased by one of the local businessmen.  It is now used for several purposes, ie recycled.    The front area of the building is office space, the upper floor a living area - 'apartment', and the back of the building had a huge make over, giving us a much needed coffee shop.  Of course, due to it's location, without the 'sandwich sign' many visitors would pass by without knowing where to find it.

The entrance has been given a cool look with the addition of a water feature and some greenery, whilst the plant lined walkway through to the back is a delight.  The new cafe proprietors have put their own stamp on the business, making it a pleasant retreat from the summer heat, and a welcome warm spot on a cold winter's day.   

I very rarely have the opportunity to spend some time there, but did so recently and thought I would share these few photos with those who read my blog.  Those who know me, know I am passionate about my local town/area, and feel it is worth sharing.  It is only a small, quaint country town, but the business people are always friendly and welcoming to visitors.  We do have an enormous amount of through traffic due to the town being at the crossroads of two much used country 'highways', ie the Warrego and the Leichhardt [I use the term highway very loosely here.............don't get too excited!!].  One can dine inside, on the verandah, or in the open under the large umbrellas.  The dining area faces the north, which of course is our most pleasant side here in the Southern Hemisphere.

I ordered the carrot cake with beloved coffee of course.  Thankfully, the serving was not too large, and I didn't have a guilt trip all the way home.  I am trying to convince my husband that a small gathering of our family and close friends at this venue [for morning tea] may be a nice way to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary next month..................  We shall see.