Rewarding life working in hospitality for Dan Gillmore

Narrabri business owner Dan Gillmore has enjoyed a rewarding career working in hospitality.

The owner of T-Table, Dan was recently awarded Young Entrepreneur of the Year at the chamber awards dinner.

Dan got his first taste in hospitality working at the bowling club and then finishing his apprenticeship at The Crossing Theatre.

However, it was his move to the RSL where he embraced the opportunity to run a business with the Outback Shack.

“I enjoy the curve balls the work throws at you. It always involves problem solving,” Dan said.

After passing the baton for the Outback Shack on to Will Brooks, Dan changed pace by owning and operating T-Table.

“The cafe environment is great. It means I can engage more with customers,” he said.

“It’s a very different experience to running a restaurant at the RSL.

“It is rewarding to have people come in, you chat and you get to know them.”

Running the Outback Shack was a great opportunity and offered plenty of life lessons.

“The RSL taught me a lot about timing and being consistent and fast.”

Seeing staff blossom has been equally as rewarding, and Dan has been pleased to bring team members along with him on the journey.

Brianna Brown started working with Dan as a junior at the RSL, aged 15.

Now, she continues her work in hospitality and with Dan at T-Table.

Jade Alexander, who worked at the RSL and now at T-Table, has also been a great support to Dan, along with his wife Sarah.

“It’s rewarding to see that growth,” Dan said of see the potential in young employees.

“Having Sarah help to train staff while at the club helped to take the pressure off.”

The acknowledgement at the recent awards dinner also serves as encouragement for Dan who, like other business owners, has weathered recent challenging times including the COVID pandemic which caused incredible disruption to hospitality businesses.

“The business is now in a position where we want it,” Dan said.