A cherished Geelong seafood institution is fighting for survival after major roadworks on a key arterial route caused a devastating 40 per cent drop in sales. AJ Seafoods, a family-run staple on Shannon Avenue for over two decades, says ongoing construction has made access a nightmare, turning customers away in droves.
Road Chaos Cuts Off Customer Lifeline
The trouble stems from the City of Greater Geelong's upgrade of Shannon Avenue between Autumn Street and Regent Street. The project, which began in February 2024 and is slated to run until late August 2024, has involved lane closures, traffic management, and significant disruption. For AJ Seafoods, located right in the thick of it, the impact has been immediate and severe.
Owner Tony Ganzaroli, who runs the shop with his wife, describes a scene of constant confusion. "It's been an absolute disaster," he stated. The works have obscured the shop's entrance, removed crucial parking directly out the front, and created a perception that the business is closed or inaccessible. Ganzaroli reports that even his most loyal regulars are struggling to find a way in, leading to the staggering 40 per cent downturn in trade.
A Family Business Under Financial Strain
The financial toll is mounting daily. Ganzaroli revealed the business is now losing approximately $2000 per week compared to its usual takings. This unsustainable loss threatens not only the viability of the business but also the livelihood of the family behind it. The couple has invested their life into the shop, which is renowned for its fresh fish, oysters, and cooked prawns.
Despite attempts to communicate with the council, Ganzaroli feels the plight of small businesses has been overlooked in the planning of these essential infrastructure works. He argues that while progress is necessary, more could have been done to mitigate the impact on local enterprises that rely on drive-by and easy-stop trade.
Calls for Support and Compensation
The situation has sparked a broader conversation about how local governments manage the collateral damage of long-term construction projects. Other traders in the area are also reportedly feeling the pinch. Ganzaroli is now calling on the City of Greater Geelong to provide tangible support, which could include financial compensation for lost income or a robust marketing campaign to direct customers back to affected businesses once works are complete.
A council spokesperson acknowledged the disruption, stating they are working to minimise inconvenience and that the upgrade will ultimately improve safety and traffic flow. However, for business owners like Tony Ganzaroli, the long-term benefits offer little solace in the face of an immediate existential threat. The future of AJ Seafoods now hinges on the community's ability to navigate the roadworks and the council's willingness to listen to the small businesses that form the backbone of Geelong's local economy.
