Residents in Western Australia's Shire of Harvey have launched a passionate campaign to rescue a cherished local tradition: the post-swim hot chip. This comes after the shire's decision to permanently close the cafe at the Leschenault Leisure Centre (LLC), a move that has sparked significant community outcry.
Community Rallies with 650-Signature Petition
The fight was formally brought to the council during an ordinary meeting last week. Brunswick resident Jamay Sullivan presented a petition that had gathered an impressive 650 signatures from disappointed locals. Ms Sullivan stated she had personally spoken to over 400 people who were upset by the closure.
"Everyone's quite upset that they won't be able to have their hot chips after their swim or basketball," Ms Sullivan told the council. She emphasised that the cafe was more than just a food outlet; it was a vital community hub that helped build relationships and fostered family traditions for years.
Council Cites Financial Losses and Upgrade Costs
In response to questions about why the facility couldn't be leased to a third-party operator, the Shire's Communities and Lifestyle Director, Suzie Haslehurst, explained the significant hurdles. She revealed that significant investment would be needed to bring the cafe up to a standard suitable for outsourcing.
Ms Haslehurst noted that outsourcing options had been explored before without success. A key issue was the cafe's location within the leisure centre, meaning an external operator would have no pass-by traffic to rely on, only centre users. The shire had also tried unsuccessfully to hire a food and beverage supervisor in the past two years to help turn the business around.
Fiscal Responsibility vs. Community Heart
Shire President Michelle Campbell defended the council's difficult decision, stating the cafe had been making a significant loss. She said the council had to be "fiscally responsible" and believed ratepayers would not be happy subsidising the ongoing losses.
"We've determined that the ratepayer would not be happy with the significant amount of loss that the cafe had been making," Cr Campbell said. While acknowledging the community's attachment, she indicated that future planning for the LLC's expansion might include provisions for a new cafe. In the interim, the shire is exploring alternative food and beverage options for centre users.
The cafe served its final hot chips and snacks on Friday, November 29, 2025, leaving a deep-fried void in the community's weekly routine. The residents' petition now places the fate of this simple pleasure firmly on the council's agenda.
