Let Stuart Know You Care

Who this will help

Hi, my name is Ange Clark. My husband Pete and I would like those who are able to join us in supporting our dearest friend Stuart Downes and his two children over the coming months in what will be a very challenging time. A few hours after this happy photo of him and his partner Alison was taken, he got the call that his business was on fire. Iconic Norah Head Restaurant 'Shorethyme' - a staple business in this tight-knit community for over 20 years, and a lifelong passion and personal legacy, was going up in flames.

Why I'm fundraising

Like us, I'm sure many have celebrated so many important occasions - special events, wedding receptions, art exhibitions, and family milestones at Shorethyme, each one remembered fondly because of the brilliant food and atmosphere provided by Stuart and the wonderful staff he has employed over the decades. Everyone was treated like family and received nothing but the best because that's just who he is - a brilliant chef and a family man.

The fire has devastated many, but Stuart is now facing a very uncertain future as the building itself was uninsured and the fate of Shorethyme is something he's working desperately to save. In the meantime, he must still provide as a father, getting through this incredible shock, Christmas, and the next few months with no income. He would never ask for help but I feel there are many who would like to offer it in a bid to assist him through this trial, and to say thankyou for all the time and support he's given the community and others.

The impact of your support

Hopeful rebuild and recovery will take a significant amount of energy and months, and while the community will no doubt provide a hand where they can, any donation you can make here will provide immediate financial relief which will be at least one weight off his shoulders. If you know Stu, you know he would be absolutely gutted at the knock-on effects of this fire and not being able to take care of everyone. He would also be incredibly humbled and grateful for your support in his time of need.

Let's see if we can give him something to smile about.