Amy Hume
TOOBORAC General Store is about to undergo an immense makeover.
New proprietors Peter and Emma Ryan were discussing plans and busily preparing for the official handover last Thursday.
The young couple is excited to introduce many changes to the store and begin a renovation that will be completed in two stages.
The right side of the store, which is currently under renovation, will be converted into a separate area for the general store, newsagency and Post Office.
The general store will have a wider selection of groceries as well as fresh local produce.
The left of the store will be completely devoted to the café.
As the former manager of the Art Retail Cheese and Espresso Bar, a hatted restaurant in Sydney, Emma will be in her domain cooking up a storm for diners.
Her extensive knowledge of the hospitality industry has led her to work at some of the top restaurants around Australia.
Emma plans to incorporate as much regional produce as she can into her menu, which will be fully revamped at the completion of the café renovations.
Homemade sauces, cakes, scones and other delicious treats will set taste-buds tingling.
As a former Victoria National Gallery barista, Emma is also keen to introduce a new coffee brand.
“Quality local seasonal produce and good tea and coffee are going to be high priority,” she said.
“By the Queen’s Birthday weekend (June) next year we hope to have everything up and running to its full capacity.
“It’s a good tree change and we’re excited about it. We’ve had good support from family.
“We have the determination and the passion to make it work.”
Peter and Emma recently moved into the house next door to the Tooborac General Store and are also beginning renovation works there, with their first child due in February.
“We always wanted to come out to the country to raise the kids. This is a good opportunity,” Peter said.
“We’re excited to be part of the community and to be providing a good service.”
Former Tooborac General Store proprietor, Natalie Sesto, who has owned the store for 16 years, wished the couple the well.
She also thanked members of the local community for their support.
“Thankyou to all the locals for their loyalty throughout the years and the school, local businesses and passing truckies,” Ms Sesto said.
“I’ve enjoyed my time here but it’s time for a change.”
The Tooborac General Store is open seven days a week from 7am until 6pm.
The Ryans hope to extend opening hours once the renovations are complete.
For more information call 5433 5313.
