Key unlocks exciting new café at Slim Dusty Centre
Published on 22 March 2025
Enjoying a cuppa and food at the Slim Dusty Centre is back on the menu with the Key Community Group stepping in to manage the café.
Kempsey Shire Council is delighted to announce that local not-for-profit organisation, Key Community Group, will soon take over the management and operation of the café and catering services at the Slim Dusty Centre. This transition will see the café transform into a warm and inclusive dining destination for both locals and visitors.
Key Community Group, which recently expanded into the café and catering industry in Coffs Harbour, is excited to bring its expertise and community-driven mission to Kempsey.
Key Community Group Chief Executive Officer, Jodie Wood, said the organisation’s long-standing connection with the area makes this initiative even more rewarding.
“We have been part of the Kempsey community for years and we’re thrilled to bring our commitment to inclusive employment to the Slim Dusty Centre,” said Ms Wood.
The new café, fittingly named Key Café, will not only serve delicious food and beverages but also support Key Community Group’s commitment to empowering people with disabilities through job opportunities.
“It’s about strengthening our community and local economy through opportunity and inclusion,” said Ms Wood.
“Key Café will not only serve great food and coffee to visitors but will also create meaningful employment and training opportunities for people with disabilities, helping them build skills and confidence in a supportive environment.”
This initiative represents a significant win for the local community, enhancing the Slim Dusty Centre’s hospitality offerings while fostering inclusivity.
"The team at Kempsey Shire Council have been amazing to work with, offering genuine support and enthusiasm for this initiative. Their dedication to fostering local business growth has been instrumental in bringing this project to life. We look forward to working alongside them to make the Key Café a thriving space for both visitors and the local community,” said Ms Wood.
Since coming under the ownership of Council in December 2022, the Slim Dusty Centre has continued to diversify. The centre has successfully hosted a variety of community and business events, driven increased visitation to its gallery and museum and earned the 2024 Macleay Valley Business Chamber Award for Outstanding Visitor Experience. Additionally, the centre has also achieved Regional Gallery Status, further solidifying its cultural significance.
With the upcoming launch of Key Café set to enhance the visitor experience and a major refurbishment—partly funded through a Creative Capital Works grant—underway to expand arts, cultural and event opportunities, the future of the Slim Dusty Centre is shaping up to be dynamic and diverse.
Kempsey Shire Council Mayor, Kinne Ring, shared her enthusiasm about the project.
“It is wonderful to see the café return to the centre, which is set to be run by an incredible community organisation, said Mayor Ring.
“This is a fantastic step forward in making our community more welcoming and inclusive and opening the Slim Dusty Centre to the wider community.”
Stay tuned for the opening of Key Café, coming soon to the Slim Dusty Centre.
For more information on the Slim Dusty Centre, please visit www.slimdustycentre.com.au