By Coral Lyn Albrecht – Owner
This year is a special one for us at The Depot Espresso Bar as we celebrate 10 years of serving the Hervey Bay community. I’m the second owner in those 10 years, having taken over in 2020, but from the moment I walked through the doors, I knew there was something special about this place.
People often ask me how I ended up owning a café, and the answer is pretty simple: I love hospitality, and I love people. When I moved to the Fraser Coast, I knew I wanted to stay in the industry. I’ve always enjoyed the pace of hospitality, meeting new people and being part of the community. When The Depot Espresso Bar came onto the market, I was drawn to its character and the fact that it was a little different from everywhere else.
The building itself has a story to tell. Originally used as a storage shed connected to the old railway, it has been transformed over the years into the café people know and love today. As we’ve grown, we’ve tried to keep as much of the original character as possible. The high ceilings, old stable-style doors and unique charm are all part of what makes The Depot Espresso Bar what it is. We’ve added a deck out back to create more seating and recently installed a beautiful stained-glass feature that brings even more warmth to the space.
One thing I love about our location is that we’re a little tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Being right alongside the rail trail means we welcome cyclists, walkers, visitors and locals every day. We also have our own car park at the rear of the café and an access ramp, making it easy for everyone to visit and enjoy the space.
Before owning The Depot Espresso Bar, I actually thought it might be nice to have a job where I could sit down and eat lunch at lunchtime like everyone else. I took a position with a transport company and spent my days behind a computer. It didn’t take long for me to realise that it wasn’t for me. I missed the people. I missed the conversations. I missed the energy that comes with a busy café. There is something exciting about seeing the coffee machine working overtime, hearing customers chatting and watching the team pull together during a busy service. It can be hectic, but I genuinely love it.
What keeps me motivated after all these years is the relationships we build. Many of our customers have become friends. Some visit every day, some once a week, and others make The Depot Espresso Bar their first stop whenever they’re back in town. One of the most rewarding parts of owning the café has been watching our younger staff members grow. Seeing them gain confidence, learn new skills and move forward in life is something I never take for granted.
At The Depot Espresso Bar, we’re passionate about hospitality. Not just service, but genuine hospitality.
Everything we do is focused on making people feel welcome. We prepare homemade food every day and pride ourselves on offering fresh meals, slices and treats made with care. Nothing is mass-produced. Our famous carrot cake has become a local favourite, our coffee is made with freshly roasted beans from Mambo Coffee on the Sunshine Coast, and we make our own lemonade and ginger soda, served in 100% recyclable PET cans.
Like many small business owners, I’ve faced challenges along the way, and mental health is certainly one of them. Running a business comes with pressure, and life can throw plenty of curveballs. If I’ve learned anything, it’s to be kind to yourself and make time for the things that help you stay grounded.
As I get closer to 60, I’ve also come to appreciate the quieter moments more. Life moves quickly, and I’ve learned the importance of spending your time wisely, staying connected to the people who matter and finding happiness in the simple things.
When I think about the perfect day at The Depot Espresso Bar, it isn’t necessarily the busiest one. It’s hearing laughter around the tables, sharing stories with customers, seeing familiar faces return and knowing people leave happier than when they arrived.
And, of course, serving great coffee always helps. For me, that’s what The Depot Espresso Bar has always been about.
If you haven’t visited us before, we’d love to welcome you. You’ll find us tucked away alongside the rail trail in Nikenbah, serving homemade food, fresh coffee and plenty of friendly conversation.
Come say hello: 42 Chapel Rd, Nikenbah
Open Monday to Friday from 6 am to 1 pm
and Saturday from 7 am to 12.30 pm.
