On the Inlet could become white elephant
PORT FAVOURITE
PORT Douglas’ most scenic and aesthetically-pleasing seafood restaurant, On the Inlet, could become a white elephant once they close shop on October 29 and move to a new location.
Forced to vacate because of the proposed development of The Reef Marina which will impact the site, there is the fear that it may sit empty for an indefinite period.
“Besides our devastation and huge regret at having to re-locate – On the Inlet will move into where Osteria Padella is now located – our biggest concern is that this prime property could be dormant for an extended period,” said co-owner Geoffrey Parmenter and 17-year employee and operations manager, Michaela Newton.
“It’s anyone’s guess when work will begin on the proposed waterfront apartments, boardwalk, rainforest walk and the shopping and entertainment precinct.
“Coupled to this, and this is the biggest worry, there is speculation that Syrian entrepreneur Ghassan Aboud – already a key player in the Cairns CBD – may want to add the Marina to his portfolio.
“If this occurs and he becomes the new developer, makes changes to what has already been approved, it will delay the process even further,” they said.
For more than 20 years, On the Inlet has been extremely popular with locals and visitors. Besides its outstanding menu, and breath-taking view, there is the added attraction of Oscar, the Great White Egret, and George the Groper, who has thrilled many at feeding time.
“We will be leaving behind many fond memories,” said Michaela, who began as a sous chef, then front house manager before assuming her present role.
She loves to tell the “bird fan” story when four starlings got caught in one of the fans and left both her and a customer covered in blood. “This was dramatic, to say the least, and what added to the spectacle is that the customer continued eating and I had to bang on the table to alert him to what was happening,” she said.
On the Inlet will have a farewell party on October 28, will cease serving meals the next day and their lease expires two days later.
“We will be taking 28 of our 35 employees across. But more importantly, we are shifting our brand to a new venue, we will continue to provide superior food and service and intend to continue the traditions we implanted at our current site,” said Michaela.
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