Today marks one year since RNH took on the management of the popular YarriYak Cafe.
Initially developed to give people with disabilities an opportunity to learn customer service, food handling, and barista skills, YarriYak Cafe has been a beloved part of RNH for many years following its opening on February 17, 2016 by then-RNH CEO Catherine Morley and then-Woodbine CEO Bernie O’Connor.
Over the years the cafe has gone from strength to strength, with RNH taking on the management of the cafe on April 30, 2024 in what was described as “a natural, positive transition” for the organisation.
“Wow, I can’t believe it has been a year since RNH took on the management of YarriYak Café – but what a year it was,” RNH CEO Jenni Masters said.”Thank you to the community for your continued support of our café, to Woodbine for their efficient operation of the café for 8 years, and to our amazing Environmental Services team for not only ensuring that the café handover was as smooth as possible, but also for continuing to supply the majority of the food sold,” she said.
“During the past 12 months we’ve listened to our customers and staff and, while remaining aligned with our healthy eating guidelines, have worked to increase and expand the menu options.”
“From our regular curry days to baked potatoes, fish and chip days and our gluten free options – not to forget the life-giving coffees – the café continues to go from strength to strength.”
“Of course, none of this would be possible without our wonderful, skilled and friendly café team.”
“As a valuable training café for work experience students and those seeking to gain hospitality and customer service skills, our very own Jarod has been with the café from the start and not only does his friendly smile make every customer’s day, but it has been so rewarding to watch his skills and confidence grow over the years.”
“We hope to be able to train more staff in the future as the café continues to grow”.