Petition urges shire to provide coffee shop trade extension

MORE than 1,480 people have signed an online petition to help a local coffee shop keep trading in Jan Juc.

Described as “a place which brings the Jan Juc community together” by petition starter Breanna Schneider, MALO has been advised by the Surf Coast Shire it must cease trading as of September 24 due to permit complications.

The team at MALO and the Jan Juc Caravan Park of which it backs on to, are asking for support in appealing to the Shire to provide a six-month trade extension, which will give them the time to navigate the current permit system.

Operating as a mobile shipping container, MALO has been embraced wholeheartedly by the Jan Juc community over the last two years and has “grown into a welcoming space” and “an important social outlet and daily ritual” for many.

Petition starter Breanna Schneider said the coffee shop owner and her staff have put their heart and soul into making it more than just a coffee shop.

“We are all devastated by the news, but the petition and its support has blown my mind.

“It’s been overwhelming to see the love and traction its gathered. Obviously, people it means a lot to our community.

“Being a remote worker living in Jan Juc, MALO is a huge part of my daily routine and I’ve connected really well with the staff.

“It’s a beautiful space, which is so limited in Jan Juc, there’s actually nothing like it.

“It’s a really big thing to take away from us.”

 

Ms Schneider said the closure of MALO would also spell the end of employment for many locals.

“Everyone has had such a tough time during the pandemic.

“It’s mindblowing for me we are in a situation where we are being advised it may cease trading.

“I’ve put my head and heart into it to save our community, save employment and to stop shutting something wonderful down.

“We just want to make some noise in a non-aggressive tone and hope to get attention and work with the Council peacefully on this.”

In response to the petition, the Surf Coast Shire said Council officers have been providing advice to the operators of MALO for 12 months on their planning permit requirements.

“During this time, Malo commenced operating the business on site without a planning permit,” Surf Coast Shire general manager place making and environment, Chris Pike said.

“Officers have worked with Malo to get an application lodged, but the timing of an outcome is dependent on Malo providing all necessary information to complete an assessment.

“The application will proceed under the usual permit process and include public notification and appeal rights.

“They have been asked to stop operating until there is an outcome on their planning permit application.”

Ms Schneider hopes a long-term solution and path can be made for MALO to continue trading.

To view the petition, head to www.change.org/p/petition-to-save-malo-coffee-jan-juc