17/12/2025
We wanted to share a heartfelt update with our customers and the Sussex Inlet community as Chubby Mermaid Takeaway begins a new chapter under new management.
Many of you may have noticed that we’ve been closed more frequently in recent times, and this wasn’t a decision made lightly. Sarah has been dealing with a significant back injury, including a severe slipped disc, and has been living with chronic, often debilitating pain on a daily basis. Despite her determination to keep going, the physical toll became too great, and it became clear that stepping back was necessary for her health, healing, and long-term wellbeing. This change in management was made with care, love, and a deep understanding of what truly mattered.
Although we are stepping back from ownership, this is not a sudden goodbye. Sarah and Zoe will continue to support the business during the transition, working closely with the new owners to ensure everything continues smoothly. It was incredibly important to us that Chubby Mermaid was passed on thoughtfully and with respect for the community that helped build it.
We’re very happy to introduce Nancy and Alex as the new owners. They are genuinely kind and thoughtful people, and we feel confident and excited knowing Chubby Mermaid is now in such good hands. We truly hope you’ll welcome and support them as warmly as you’ve supported us.
This moment also marks a new beginning for us personally. Zoe will be focusing on her career at Inasmuch, continuing to care for others in aged care, while slowly and intentionally working toward her long-held dream of becoming a nurse. Stepping into this next chapter feels both emotional and hopeful, and we’re incredibly grateful to do so knowing Chubby Mermaid’s future is secure.
We also want to take a moment to express our deepest thanks to the people who helped carry Chubby Mermaid through this journey. To Melita and Lino, thank you for your dedication, reliability, and genuine care for the shop and its customers. To Tristan, Rylan, Kayden, Indie and Damo thank you for your hard work, flexibility, and the energy you brought into the shop every day — you were such an important part of what made this place run. And to Shane, thank you for the constant support behind the scenes, the long days, the helping hands, and the encouragement when it was needed most.
To our local community — thank you. Thank you for your patience, understanding, loyalty, and kindness through every season. Being part of your routines, your family meals, and your everyday lives has been an absolute privilege.
We’re so proud of what Chubby Mermaid has been, deeply grateful for everyone who helped shape it, and excited to watch it continue to grow into its next chapter.
With all our love and appreciation,
Sarah & Zoe
Chubby Mermaid Takeaway 🧜♀️
