The
Good Life
The Rocks at Aquarius, a highlight for locals and backpackers Originally from Scotland, General Manager of the Aquarius Resort and The Rocks Cafe, Brad Duncan has been with the business since 2008 in different capacities. ‘I started working in the accommodation sector in 2008 – it was my first job in Byron,’ says Brad, who has a variety of roles within the job. ‘I am never bored! The diverse types of people I meet means I have to think on my feet, and offer guests an amazing experience in one of Byron’s hidden gems. It is obviously always essential to plan and prioritise, but in this industry, there are always so many variables (especially this year!).’ The Rocks Cafe is definitely a highlight of a visit to the Aquarius with delicious, rustic dishes in a beautiful setting. The meals are value for money served up by friendly, long-term employees who have built a great rapport with the locals. Brad says the Aquarius and The Rocks are registered as COVID Safe. ‘Initially, we had to reduce our paid employees from 35 to three. We have since been able to restructure business activities, and re-hire a number of employees on JobKeeper paid positions. We have also offered any employees who were with us prior to COVID-19 accommodation onsite to help us get through this together’. Aquarius have implemented a number of changes to safely manage this period, including, but not limited to: increased sanitisation practices in the accommodation, cafe, reception and communal spaces; COVID Safe signage throughout the resort; maximum seating capacities in the cafe and communal spaces; COVID Safe sign-in procedures; installation of Perspex shields and social distancing markings in all areas; and meetings with departments to
make staff fully aware of their roles and responsibilities, while also allowing them to air any queries, concerns or suggestions. ‘We are a team at Aquarius, and want our employees to feel safe, secure and comfortable at work,’ Brad says.
‘We are incredibly appreciative of our customers, and their continued support and co-operation.’
Brad Duncan says he is never bored. ‘The diverse types of people I meet means I have to think on my feet.’ Photo Tree Faerie.
The inner bar and rooftop bar are unfortunately still closed – but they are hoping to open again from Thursdays to Saturdays, from late September onward – in line with current NSW government legislation. ‘At the moment, The Rocks operates at night from Thursday to Saturday with an amazing home-made chicken dish, amongst others. It is fully licensed, and has a great 6–8pm happy two-hours with $5 basics and $10 cocktails. Thursday night is quiz night, and Friday is Live Music where we support local acts.’ Brad says they are doing their best to
rebalance after recent health regulation including a bacon and egg roll with a hash changes. He says ‘normal’ is a distant brown and freshly brewed Byron Bay thought at the moment. ‘We have battled Coffee for just $13, health bowls, freshly through the first and second phases and squeezed juices, and lots of other brekky remain in a position to continue to rebuild dishes on offer as well. the business as the year continues. The Q You can find The Rocks Cafe at the owner has been incredibly supportive and Aquarius Resort, 16 Lawson Street, Byron is fighting through these times with us.’ Brad says, as they slowly reopen all areas of the venue, they are looking forward to welcoming back their supportive locals and onsite backpackers. ‘We are incredibly appreciative COVID-SAFE VENUE. 10% discount for all of our customers, and their emergency workers (*ID required) continued support and Local, organic and ethically farmed produce. Spacious heated alfresco dining co-operation.’ area with lots of space to enjoy. They have also just TRADING HOURS: launched a new brunch Thurs – Sat 5pm – 8.30pm Sunday 2pm – 7pm menu, and have some Byron Bay Golf Club, 62 Broken Head Rd delectable specials 6685 6470 info@thepastabowlbyronbay.com
Dining at loft Casual, relaxed dining perfect for intimate dinners, groups and special occasions. Menu by Head Chef, Craig Mcfarland. Our new ‘set menu’ option is perfect for groups - enjoy our chef’s selection of dishes. View our menu online. Open every day from 4pm - Late
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Set Menus - Loft favorites -
- Loft dining -
7 dishes $39 pp
9 dishes $49 pp
for groups of 4+
ĕżƐĕŔćĕſ ǰǽ ǩǧǩǧ The Byron Shire 2/9/20 Echo 4:49 p. m.25