From Classroom To Coast A New Chapter For Cardwell Beachcomber’s Restaurant

Tina Knight, the new owner of the Cardwell Beachcomber Restaurant, has quickly made her mark since taking over on 20th December, with early signs pointing to a successful venture.
After dedicating 25 years to teaching, Tina spent the past year yearning for a fresh challenge. A visit to family in Cardwell set the wheels in motion when she discovered the Beachcomber’s Restaurant. She was instantly captivated, not only by the charm of the restaurant but also by its breathtaking ocean views—her favourite feature of the establishment.
Tina’s transition from the classroom to the culinary world has already begun to pay off, with her passion and dedication shining through.
Tina said she has always wanted to retire in far-north Queensland and when the restaurant came up for sale, she jumped at the opportunity.

“It's always been somewhere we came for holidays, and it's just got everything: the rainforest, the beach and the reef,” Tina said.

She had been an English teacher for a while but stepping into restaurant ownership wasn’t particularly new to her, as she has been around restaurants and businesses her entire life.

Restaurants and businesses are also in her blood.

“My mum is a retired chef, and my dad owns a lot of businesses; we are a business-orientated family, mainly in the restaurant area, so I have got a lot of support from them,” said Tina.

Tina has also been getting a lot of support from the local community.

“The community is amazing here, I have never ever seen so much support,” exclaimed Tina.

“I'm taken aback. I've never lived in tiny towns, but if I had known this was what it was like, I probably would have done it sooner.”