HUNTER HEROES - Richard Stark
Sal's by the Lake is a family-focused café with the aim of giving friendly service at an affordable price. All profits made through the café go toward helping fund local Salvation Army services in the community.
It is operated by Toronto chef Richard Stark, who has worked in various restaurants in Australia and overseas, but four years ago dedicated himself to helping others through The Salvation Army.
“The cafe is a family-focused facility with the aim of giving friendly service at an affordable price. Most importantly, all profits made through the café will go towards helping fund local Salvation Army services in the community,” says Richard.
Salvation Army Divisional Secretary Major Warren Parkinson says the café presents an opportunity to connect with the community in a new way. “It also allows us to raise money for local community programs, as well as provide employment opportunities.”
When it opened in March 2012, the café hired two young people who received training through Nourish Café, part of the OASIS Hunter Youth Support Network. The network provides training in a variety of fields such as retail and hospitality to help people get back into the workforce.
The café is located in the Lake Macquarie Variety Playground, the largest playground in Australia. It is open seven days a week, from 8.30am-4pm Monday to Friday, and 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday.
