The company operating the Baralaba pub, which burned down just over two weeks ago, has now gone into administration and is being forced to sell its businesses, including the town’s only supermarket and cafe. This situation has left the close-knit community, located 150 km southwest of Rockhampton, in disarray, especially after staff were met by administrators in recent meetings.
Serca Supermarkets is also being compelled to sell its Tieri and Woorabinda Foodworks stores. However, since these are the only supermarkets in their respective towns, the administrators have opted to keep them running for the time being.
The company will need to sell the Baralaba Cafe, Foodworks Baralaba, and its stores in Woorabinda and Tieri, which collectively employ around 50 people.
A post on the Baralaba Township News and Info Facebook group expressed the community’s distress, saying, “Let’s pray that our supermarket can be saved.” The message also held out hope that the Woorabinda and Tieri locations might find a buyer as well.
Administrators of the Facebook page have refrained from speaking to the media about what is now the second tragedy to hit Baralaba in recent weeks. Just last month, the town was rocked by the loss of its historic pub, which was destroyed by fire.
The rural community has rallied around Jason Simmons, the licensee of Baralaba Hotel and owner of the Baralaba Foodworks and Cafe, though he has chosen not to comment on the situation.
The 95-year-old pub was engulfed in flames in the early hours of Saturday, August 24. Investigations by the Queensland Fire Department are ongoing, but there is no indication of foul play or suspicious activity. The Baralaba Hotel had been recently listed for sale for the first time since 1981.
Michael Beck, a principal at Worrells, was appointed as the administrator for Serca Supermarkets Pty Ltd on September 4. Beck has stated that the businesses will continue to operate while he evaluates their viability and explores potential changes that could allow them to keep running. His team has already received interest from potential buyers for the supermarket businesses.
Beck emphasised that they are working to achieve the best possible outcome for customers, employees, creditors, and the affected communities. “We expect sales to take place in due course, and we are hopeful the businesses will continue to operate, albeit under new ownership,” he said.
As part of the administration process, Beck’s team is engaging with suppliers and stakeholders to ensure business continuity. He acknowledged the significant impact of the administration on the towns involved but promised ongoing communication with all affected parties.
Worrells has asked all creditors to submit proof of debt through their online portal.
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