Salt Bush Cafe: A Dream Realised for Owner Jade Campbell in Queenscliff
For Salt Bush Cafe owner Jade Campbell, the desire to run her own business had been a long-held aspiration. However, the precise location and timing remained uncertain until a pivotal moment brought her dream to life in the coastal borough of Queenscliff.
From Hospitality to Education and Back Again
Jade Campbell's journey into the hospitality industry began naturally after high school. She completed a traineeship, studied hospitality management, and obtained all necessary certifications. Yet, her path took an unexpected turn into education, where she worked as an integration aide and later as a primary school teacher.
Despite this detour, Jade never lost her passion for hospitality. An opportunity to assist a friend during holidays at a juice bar reignited her love for the industry. Later, friends in Barwon Heads entrusted her with full control of their venue, solidifying her belief that working with food and customers was her true calling.
The Perfect Location in Queenscliff
With grandparents who had lived in Queenscliff "forever," Jade spent much of her youth in the area. Now residing in Ocean Grove with her family, a chance visit to Queenscliff led her to the Salt Bush site. "I never really thought of location. It was just what felt right and this felt right," Jade explains.
The site, a former provedore with "a lot going on," was for sale for some time. Jade's husband encouraged her to pursue it, saying, "Just do it, just go. You want it, you can’t stop talking about it." She took over the space and transformed it into the homely and welcoming Salt Bush Cafe, preserving the building's individual rooms to create intimate dining areas.
Unexpected Menu Success
Initially planning to offer only cake and coffee, Jade's homemade bread accidentally became a staple when it made its way onto the menu as paninis. These paninis have since become renowned, with the chicken schnitzel and housemade pesto being the most ordered item. Older customers often prefer ham, cheese, and tomato, while the egg and bacon combo has a strong following.
Jade also expanded into breakfast offerings, with Vue Grand and local Airbnb proprietors sending guests her way. The concise breakfast menu includes porridge, granola, fruit toast, smashed avocado, and the popular egg and bacon panini.
A Homely Atmosphere and Future Plans
The cafe's design fosters a relaxed, home-like environment, with individual rooms like a front parlour featuring an open fireplace and a cosy "lounge room" popular with children. "People come here because it’s relaxing, you can sit here for a long time and not feel uncomfortable," Jade adds.
Supported by a young, relaxed crew beloved by locals, Jade is now looking to expand. Her vision includes a Salt Bush chain, with a second outlet potentially opening soon. Her oldest daughter, having just graduated, expresses interest in joining the business.
Jade reflects happily on her journey, stating, "I’m still loving it, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I can’t see myself ever working for someone again." Salt Bush Cafe, located at 4/44 Hesse St, Queenscliff, is open daily from 8am, continuing to serve the community with homemade delights and warm hospitality.
