20 Sept - 26 Sept
LOCALLY OWNED SINCE FOREVER
No 869
LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN
JO
BS
25 IN 8 S ID
E
New enzymes, fewer dimes but good times
Five years of Yonder, how the hell did we get here? Naive, ambitious and driven, we’ve never stopped learning along the way. And who’d have foreseen this journey we’ve had down the B roads? We conceptualised Yonder in 2015 after I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Whilst the diagnosis undeniably sucked, we got on the front foot with a healthier lifestyle and a renewed lease on life. However, looking for accessible and healthy places to eat across the world in 2014, we found it polarising. We just wanted to create a place where no matter your dietary preference or limitations, you were welcome to come together and have a bloody good time. It was to be a celebration of socialising, friendship and just great food. Having lived in Queenstown for 15 years, we always wanted to help drive more culture, soul and community into this special little town. The goal was to create a Food & Beverage hub for locals whilst housing a variety of live performing arts. The love of music and providing good times for all, coined our tagline, “Come as you are” (cheers Kurt), but then came the covid curveball. The divisiveness and separation that Covid caused, forced communities apart and was the antithesis of what we were trying to achieve. Even our tagline was no longer valid! But those that could, stuck by us, and this kept us going for the last two and a half years. This is a huge ‘Thank You’ PSA to you all!
Glyn Lewers, Neeta Shetty, Jon Mitchell and Olivia Wensley at the Catalyst Trust’s Mayoral Candidates Forum last Tuesday. Now its our turn with voting now open in the local government elections from last Friday and runs until 8 October. More on page 4.
Internally, it has always been our goal to employ only the most incredible number of rad humans. This focus ensured we had a solid crew that went above and beyond to support each other during the most challenging times. Now during crippling industry-wide staff shortages, they continue to unite for each other, and strive for the experience that we’re seeking to provide. We’re seeing crazy numbers, whilst operating with nearly half the number of staff pre-COVID. Without a beautiful team and brilliant locals, this wouldn’t be possible. So, thank you to our incredible people, past and present. Hospitality is hard. Wherever you go, please be forgiving, understanding and interested in your human-to-human interactions. More troubled times are afoot with staffing, cost increases and variable hours. Just remember that we’re all trying to have a great experience. Be kind, unwind. With our fifth birthday fast approaching, I’ve been reflecting on the insane journey we’ve had. We couldn’t do this if it weren’t for great people. To thank all those who supported us through the rough lines and the good times, this Friday, we’re hosting two hours of free coffee, and a free evening of local art, comedy, music and snacks. We’d love to see you! Gary Livesey Director of Yonder and The World Bar Yonder is celebrating its 5th birthday on Friday 23rd September
FIVE MILE, FRANKTON | +64 3 441 4334
16 BEERS ON TAP | HEARTY PUB MEALS | HAPPY HOUR 4-6PM
SINCE 2002 1 ATHOL STREET, THE VILLAGE GREEN
casual dining at its best...
+64 3 442 4444