A new local bakery set to open its doors to the public next month will bring about 15 new job opportunities in various roles to Naracoorte.

Craig’s Bakehouse & Café located on Smith Street opens on December 11, 2024.

Proprietor Craig McCallum bought the business from the owners of the former Morris Bakery after it went into administration last February and was subsequently put on the market.

In an interview with this newspaper [Naracoorte News], Craig said the café was not just another business but a reflection of Naracoorte’s community spirit.

“We’re thrilled to be adding around 15 new jobs to Naracoorte, from bakers and kitchen staff to customer service roles. It’s about providing steady employment while also contributing to the local economy and fostering skills that support the region’s unique food culture,” Craig said.

He said the business venture was a new chapter of local employment, tourism growth, and community engagement on the Limestone Coast.

Why Craig’s Bakehouse & Café?

With a strong foundation in hospitality and marketing, Craig says he has always valued the power of connecting communities through shared, quality experiences.

“The rich history of the Limestone Coast and the warmth of the Naracoorte community inspired me to create Craig’s Bakehouse & Café, where we can celebrate local talent, cuisine, and produce. My goal is for Craig’s to not only serve locals but to also welcome pass-through visitors between Adelaide and Melbourne, becoming a culinary highlight for all.”

Investment value?

While Craig preferred not to share the specific figures, he said the investment was of substantial value, as they are committed to delivering a high-quality experience that contributes to the community’s economy.

“This investment goes beyond just a business. It’s about creating lasting benefits for Naracoorte through jobs, tourism, and local supplier partnerships.

“This venture aims to sustain local growth and build a memorable destination for everyone in the region and beyond,” he shared.

What’s the aim of Craig’s Bakehouse & Café?

According to Craig, the business’s aim was simple.

“It’s to bring people together and be a cornerstone for both locals and visitors. Our approach is different because we’re not just a bakery and/or a cafe; we aim to reflect the rich agricultural, grazing, and produce heritage of the Limestone Coast through our ingredients and products.

“We’re focused on elevating local ingredients where possible while working alongside the community to co-create a space that feels like home.

“We’ve designed Craig’s to blend tradition with a fresh approach, creating a unique destination that tourists and locals alike can enjoy and connect over.”

What sort of products and pastries would Craig’s Bakehouse & Café sell?

Craig highlighted that their menu would feature the usual fare expected of a bakery as well as artisanal sourdough, spelt, gluten-free ranges, freshly baked pastries and Danish, pre-made sandwiches, pies, pasties, and ethically sourced coffee, all using local ingredients wherever possible.

“This diverse range is crafted to cater to both locals’ everyday needs and tourists looking for a taste of the Limestone Coast. By featuring local produce, we’re not only supporting nearby suppliers but also giving our customers a genuine taste of the Limestone Coast.”

What’s your message to the community and visitors?

Craig said his message was one of gratitude and partnership.

“Craig’s Bakehouse & Café is here because of this incredible community, and we’re excited to contribute to Naracoorte’s growth and showcase the best of the Limestone Coast to visitors.

“There’s a strong demand for extended hours in venues like Craig’s, which will help attract more tourists and pass-through traffic.”

However, to make this a reality, he said the business needed the community’s continued support.

“We can only keep those extended hours if our local community actively backs us. Together, we can create something special that benefits everyone, and we look forward to creating lasting memories and to being a place that brings together the flavours and stories of the region.”

He said he was deeply appreciative of the welcome and support received so far from the community.

“Craig’s Bakehouse is more than a business. It has been designed to actively support Naracoorte’s growth, to provide a gathering place to create lasting memories, as well as being a place that brings together the flavours and stories of the region.

“We’re excited to build something that locals can be proud of and that visitors will remember.”

This article appeared in the Naracoorte News.