Co-op News
From "Maple Street Co-op News", August/September 2008

"New GM's First Impressions"
By Co-op Manager, Karen Syrmis

As this is my first report as general manager of the Co-op and UpFront Club, I thought I would share some observations with you - mainly from the UpFront Club perspective, as that is where I am concentrating my energy at present. (I will present a discussion paper to the Board on my observations and recommendations when I meet with them.)

I have found the staff take pride in their work, and are committed and hard working. The customers are a varied demographic: locals, members, weekenders and a smaller percentage of visitors. Significantly, there is strong collaboration between staff, management and members.

There are exciting changes planned that will result in increased efficiency and productivity. The Club has recently installed a new point of sale system, which is designed to streamline and organise everything, including the menu, pricing, stock control, statistics and reporting.

A new cook-top oven has been purchased to replace the old one (which is at least 20 years old - I remember it from the Maleny Kitchen days).

Our new chef Patrick Bender and I will be creating a fresh seasonal menu, and I thank everyone for their input into menu ideas. We are fortunate to have Patrick as our head chef. Originally from France, he's lived in Australia for 18 years. Patrick has vast experience in five-star hotels in Switzerland, has worked at top Sydney restaurants such as Bar Luca and Holiday Inn Menzies, and has been head and sous chef at various Sunshine Coast restuarants.

The change from the current Club licence to an on-premises (meals) liquor licence, which is soon to take effect, will have a huge impact on the daily running of the Club. All staff will be trained in RSA (Responsible Serve of Alcohol).

A survey will be circulated in coming weeks to gather your feedback, experiences, and ideas. Again, I thank you for all your ideas and suggestions to date.

To work in the environment of the Maple Street Co-op and UpFront Club, where social responsibility and ethical values are demonstrated, will be a very rewarding experience.

[From "Maple Street Co-op News", August/September 2008; published by The Maple Street Co-operative Society Ltd, 37 Maple Street, Maleny, Qld 4552, Australia, tel (07) 5494 2088, email maplest.co-op@serv.net.au, website http://www.maplestreetco-op.com.au]