Community support for business destroyed by fire

THE Portarlington community is rallying around business Pier Front Pizzeria after it was heavily damaged by a fire at the end of February.

Fellow traders Vannora is also showing their support by organising a twilight market for tomorrow tonight (Friday, March 21) with all funds raised being donated to the impacted restaurant.

Vannora co-owner Rebecca Sykes said it was someone else in the community who suggested the fundraising idea to them.

“We thought a market would be a really good idea, basically it’s just to raise as much money as we possibly can to help them, knowing that it’s probably only going to be a drop in the ocean compared to what they need,” she said.

“The community’s been great, everyone wants to donate, we’ve got donations from some local businesses, raffles and things to raise extra money, it’s really just all about supporting the Pier Front team.”

Local business stands, stalls, facepainting and musicians will make up the event while a gold coin entry will contribute to the fundraising total.

John Geracitano, who owns Pier Front Pizzeria alongside wife Erin, said the community support they had received since the fire has been overwhelming.

“They’re all wanting to help in any which way, and it is pretty early on for us, as far as we don’t even know where we need the help at the moment.”

Mr Geracitano said Vannora were really interested in doing something to help and reached out with the suggestion of holding a market.

“It was touching to see that they’re part of the community as well and they’re planning to support it as much as every other business in Portarlington.

“It’s quite a tight knit community and moving from Melbourne, it’s unlike anything I’ve experienced.”

Money raised from the market will go directly towards helping Pier Front Pizzeria make ends meet until their insurance starts to come through.

The market will begin at 5pm at Vannora in Smyth Street, Portarlington.

For more information, head to Vannora’s Facebook page.