Cafe wheels into motion
‘Caravan’ to provide business
RESIDENT Ben Hunter and his bakery stall have become a familiar sight at the My Local Feast Farmers’ Market, and now he is looking to get better acquainted with the rest of Toowoomba by adding wheels.
Mr Hunter is on the verge of an exciting new venture, expanding his business Ben and Co, Baking with a Purpose, into a caravan café that tours the city.
Mr Hunter, who has Down Syndrome and is non-verbal, started Ben and Co two years ago after completing his Certificate II in Kitchen Operations with support from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
He has built a fan base at the markets, with many of his regulars learning sign-language for “one,” “two,” “cake” and “thank you.” Mr Hunter’s support workers help him communicate with customers.
He is now hoping to expand employment opportunities for others with disabilities through the creation of the caravan.
“I’m hoping the coffee will increase our following and allow us to further expand our business, so we will have the capacity to employ more people,” his mum Carolyn Hunter said.
“We are aiming to offer two two-hour shifts for young adults with disabilities to join us each Saturday morning at the markets to gain experience with Ben.
“Because of the NDIS, we have been able to set up Ben with a meaningful career, and we hope to now do the same for other young people.”
Mr Hunter’s business recently won the Business Engagement Award at the Toowoomba Business Disability Awards a celebration of local businesses that provide opportunities for people with a disability.
Construction of the Ben and Co caravan is due to be completed in early December, in time for International Day of People with a Disability on December 3.
This year’s theme fits with Mr Hunter’s vision - empowering persons with disabilities.