05/08/2026
This month marks 10 years since I was fortunate enough to take over Eclectic Tastes from the wonderful Margo Petit. What an incredible privilege it has been to continue the legacy of a café that has now been part of Ballarat’s hospitality scene for almost 25 years.
Hospitality has always been part of my life. I was the little girl who grew up around it, absolutely convinced I would never work in the industry. Yet here I am, more than 25 years after opening my first business, still feeling incredibly fortunate to do something I genuinely love.
It has not always been easy. Hospitality asks a lot of the people who choose it, and the past decade, particularly through COVID, has tested us all. But despite the challenges, I have never lost my love for welcoming people through the door, serving beautiful food and coffee and creating a place where people feel welcomed and at home.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside an extraordinary team, talented suppliers, tradespeople and fellow business owners. Many have become lifelong friends, and I will always be grateful for their professionalism, generosity and support.
To our wonderful customers, thank you for making Eclectic Tastes part of your lives. Whether you have joined us for your morning coffee, celebrated milestones with us or simply stopped by for a chat, you have helped create the community that has made Eclectic Tastes so special.
To my family, thank you for the unwavering love and support you have given me, especially through the tougher times. Hospitality isn’t just a career, it becomes a family commitment. My children have grown up in cafés, spending more afternoons, evenings and weekends helping out than they probably would have liked. My family have made sacrifices, shown patience and supported me every step of the way, and I could not be more grateful.
And finally, thank you to Ballarat. Your support over the past decade has meant more than words can express. The friendships I have made, the conversations shared across the coffee machine and the kindness shown to me and my family are gifts I will always treasure.
Celebrating 10 years of Eclectic Tastes feels less like celebrating a business and more like celebrating a community. Thank you for allowing us to be part of yours.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Jane
