A groovy new build for town

A new outlook as you approach Rainbow Beach's main street

A new outlook as you approach Rainbow Beach’s main street

By now the ‘Groovy Grape’ building has disappeared and locals are wondering what will be in its place.

Owner Bob Perrett said, “Expect five modern shops, outdoor dining and extensive landscaping of the park adjacent to Clarkson Drive.”

As I write, the fence is up and whilst we were fishing and watching weigh-ins at the ‘Classic’, the building was demolished.

The family business, with his daughter Sally, does a lot of commercial development; warehouses, show rooms…

Bob recalls holidaying here over the years at Rainbow Beach and onto Fraser, since the 1960s.

Initially, they bought a unit at Ocean View Parade, and then five years ago purchased 12 Rainbow Beach Road, where you’ll find Café Jilarty, Happy Travels and Rainbow Beach Realty (realtor Andrew Hawkins is handling lettings of the new stores).

“I’ve always liked that corner site,” said Bob. “We purchased the property three years ago, but it needed a lot of work. It wasn’t practical to renovate, so we decided to build something new.”

And what shops will we see? “Wayne’s coming back! We are in negotiations with a number of parties for all of the shops.”

Wayne Jones from Rainbow Beach Tackle, Camping and Disposal said the redevelopment has two advantages for him – new premises to move into and a six-month holiday!

The landscaping along Clarkson Drive will be a big improvement

The landscaping along Clarkson Drive will be a big improvement

Sally is most looking forward to one thing, “The old building was beyond its use-by date – we are excited to see it go – we’ll make the grounds more of a community space, which will reflect what Council are doing around the ocean side.”

Lory Constructions are building the single storey project which is due for completion in November.

Sally and Bob plan to visit regularly to check on progress.  Said Sally, “I really enjoy the town  and bring my children here. It is not overdeveloped – the town has a great feel and we want to be a part of that.”

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