The Ballina and Lennox Head community has been left heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected loss of Blake Rogers.

Blake was a devoted husband to Cilla, a deeply loving and incredibly proud father to his three children, Xanthe, Zane and Ashlee and a much loved member of the local community.

Blake and Cilla are both born and raised Northern Rivers locals. Since 2023, they have poured their hearts, energy and love into Chido Cantina, their family-owned Mexican restaurant in Lennox Head.

Chido was a place Blake and his family created for their community.

And at the heart of it all was Blake.

He was known for his incredible generosity, his kindness and, most of all, his smile. Blake had a genuine ability to make people feel welcome and valued. He gave so much of himself to the people around him, and his presence became such a familiar and loved part of the Lennox Head community.

Now, his family is facing a loss that is impossible to put into words.

Chido Cantina has closed its doors as the family takes the time they need to grieve, come together and work out what the future looks like.

This fundraiser has been created to give Blake’s family some breathing room during this devastating time.

Funds raised will help the family with the ongoing financial pressures and commitments associated with Chido Cantina as the family considers its future.

At a time when their world has been turned upside down, our hope is that the community can come together and give this family one less thing to carry.

If you knew Blake, loved Chido, shared a meal at the restaurant, had a laugh with him, or simply crossed paths with him over the years, please consider helping in whatever way you can.

No donation is too small. Every contribution will make a difference.

And if you’re not in a position to donate, sharing this fundraiser is incredibly valuable. One share could reach someone who knew Blake, someone who loved Chido, or someone who simply wants to help a local family through an unimaginable time.

Please keep the family and friends, and the entire Chido Cantina team in your thoughts.

Thank you for showing Blake’s family the same kindness, generosity and community spirit that Blake showed to so many others.

Rest peacefully, Blake. You were deeply loved. You will be deeply missed. And you will never be forgotten. ❤️