Kate Close, a passionate advocate for young people is being honoured in a new Border eatery, Close Collective Café, which is now open in Central Wodonga.
Junction Support Services runs the café.
Kate Close was Intensive Case Management Service Team Manager at Junction at the time of her passing in 2022 from cancer.
“This social enterprise café serves as a heartfelt tribute to a highly valued colleague and much-loved friend,” says Junction CEO Megan Hanley.
“Kate had a work ethic second to none, and her passion for working with the community has left an incredible mark on all of us.
“She would be so proud of the Close Collective Café, a place that brings people and organisations together for the collective good of the community.”
All café profits will be invested in Junction’s local youth and community support programs.
Chris Close, a residential care worker with Junction, says his mother’s passion for empowering young people will live on through the cafe.
“This cafe would mean so much to Mum,” says Chris.
“She’s had such a passion for the community and helping everybody.
“I think she’d be extremely proud that, although she might not be here, she is still making a difference to the youth in our community.”
Since buying the site in 2021, Junction has undertaken an extensive program to convert the iconic 198a High Street building.
Junction runs Wodonga’s first dedicated youth space, Windbreak 3690, in the rear half of the building overlooking Woodland Grove.
Close Collective Café now operates from the front half overlooking Woodland Grove and High Street.
Café Manager David Kapay will draw on his international experience, including four years with Jamie Oliver’s training restaurant Fifteen London, to lead a similar training program by Close Collective Café and Junction staff.
“Fifteen wasn’t just about cooking; it was about life skills, connection and relationships,” David Kapay says.
“These young people are now running catering companies and restaurants. It was an honour to see them grow, learn skills, and turn their lives around.
“It’s an incredible concept, and the training concept we will introduce at Close Collective Cafe will be very similar.”
Close Collective Café is open 7am to 3pm, Monday through Friday. It accepts meeting space bookings at 02 6049 1870 and workplace and business catering.
2AY Local news coverage:
WIN News coverage:
ABC Goulburn Murray Radio Live Broadcast from Close Collective Cafe, March 20, 2024
