Fish D’Vine is back in business and its larger-than-life seafood entrepreneur Kev Collins is more passionate than ever about the future of Airlie Beach. The phoenix of the Whitsundays has literally risen from the ashes of his once smouldering restaurant and rum bar to repair, rejuvenate and reopen his doors.
More than 1,400 people entered the ballot for just 200 tickets to Fish D’Vine’s re-opening party on Monday night, where Mr Collins, his business partner Rebecca Clark and “Rum ambassador” Mark Wyatt thanked the community for its ongoing support.
“On May 17 the ABC had a news story that said a fish and chip shop had burnt down in Airlie Beach. Talk about adding insult to injury,” Mr Collins quipped.
Local MP and Tourism Minister Jan Jarratt was on hand to cut the ribbon and officially reopen what she says “must be the best fish and chip shop in Queensland!”
“The Premier signed off for me to leave cabinet early today because she knows how important this is. You are a symbol of hope and as you’ve risen from the ashes so shall the tourism industry in Airlie Beach,” Ms Jarratt said.
Ms Jarratt revealed to Monday night’s crowd that it was actually at Fish D’Vine some seven years ago, she first had a date with one Ziggy Ziegler, who is now of course the love of her life.
Kev and his team made special acknowledgement of the emergency services (many of whom were present at the event) and Keith from Oceanic Insurance.
“If it hadn’t been for the fact we used a local insurance broker who understood our business we probably wouldn’t have our business now.”
“Shop local. It makes a big difference,” he said.
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