Big Esso, which shone a light on First Nations food, has had its journey brought to an abrupt end, shocking even its owner, who says she is determined to fight back.
Pioneering First Nations eatery Big Esso has closed its Federation Square restaurant, catering arm and retail business, with the company placed into liquidation and founder Nornie Bero saying the decision was swift and a surprise to her.
“We found out on Wednesday, and by Thursday, the doors were closed,” she wrote in a statement sent to this masthead.
Bero confirmed that all three aspects of the business – dining, retail and catering — have ceased operation.
Big Esso opened in Federation Square in 2021, following on from Bero’s Yarraville cafe Mabu Mabu. The business got its start in Bero’s home kitchen, that Bero, who hails from the Torres Strait Islands, launched to shine a light on First Nations ingredients.
In response to questions from this masthead, Bero said that upon changing accountants, she was informed that the business would need to close.
“It wasn’t about accounting in general but it was about what information we weren’t given from our last [accountants]. I can’t really say, I can’t elaborate …. because we will be under investigation.”
Asked whether cost-of-living had affected her business, Bero said: “Of course it does.”
“Everything goes up, but your prices have to stay the same.”
While she is unsure of what the future holds, she is determined to rebuild.
“I don’t want to lay down and die. I want to honour the people that are behind me, the suppliers that I have. I want to make sure that they’re all looked after. And I will try my best to get back up and running again.”
Her official statement said: “We had a good run, and I am incredibly proud of everything we achieved over the years. Being part of such a vibrant community and having the privilege to showcase our message of bringing native Australian ingredients into the forefront of Australian cuisine has been an incredible journey.”
“As we move forward, we are currently in talks with the accountants and liquidators to understand the next steps. We are committed to ensuring that all of our staff, suppliers, and supporters receive what they are entitled to, and we are doing everything we can to manage the situation with care and transparency.”
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Emma Breheny – Emma is Good Food’s Melbourne eating out and restaurant editor.
