GREENACRES NEW CAFE HAS TOUCHED DOWN AT SHELLHARBOUR AIRPORT

Shellharbour Airport is the new home for Greenacres’ exciting expansion. Greenacres, a trusted disability service provider with over 70 years of experience in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, is excited to announce the opening of its fourth café location—an innovative space that also doubles as a catering kitchen. This new site will not only serve as a café for airport travellers and locals but will also act as the central hub for Greenacres’ expanding catering operations, providing fresh food for Greenacres cafés and catering orders.

The space will offer valuable employment opportunities for people of all abilities, with support workers providing skill development, and on the job guidance, in a mainstream employment setting offering both open and supported employment opportunities.

The catering kitchen initially operated from a temporary space at IRT’s Diment Towers. Greenacres is grateful for their support during the early stages of the catering business.

Karen Burdett, CEO of Greenacres, said the opportunity to operate from Shellharbour Airport is a significant milestone for the organisation. “We are incredibly thankful to Shellharbour City Council for their generous support in helping us establish a presence at the airport,” said Ms Burdett. “This new space enables us to expand our social enterprises while creating meaningful employment opportunities for people of all abilities in an inclusive setting.”

Supported Employee John shared his enthusiasm for the opportunity, saying, "I love gaining new experiences and feel a real sense of fulfilment serving and interacting with the community. I also enjoy preparing and arranging the catering boxes, as I have great attention to detail.’’

Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer welcomed the addition of Greenacres to the airport. “We’re proud to support Greenacres in bringing their newest café to Shellharbour Airport,” said Mayor Homer. “It’s a fantastic example of how community partnerships can deliver real social and economic benefits, supporting local jobs, inclusive opportunities, and a welcoming experience for travellers and locals alike and a great example of Shellharbour Council facilitating community-focused initiatives through practical and strategic support.”

Coinciding with the café’s opening is a refreshed brand identity. The previous name, Brewing Up A Storm, has now transitioned to Greenacres Cafés and Catering, better aligning with Greenacres’ core brand and helping customers more clearly understand the services and social purpose behind its offerings.

Greenacres looks forward to sharing this new chapter with the community at the official opening on 14 April at 1:00pm at Shellharbour Airport as it celebrates this exciting milestone and the opportunities it represents for people with disability within the Illawarra.

Media Contact: Aleisha Brooke-Smith Head of Marketing and Business Development Aleishab@greenacres.net.au 0481 314 147