Saturday the 27th of February 2021 was much more than another fabulous night of music hosted by Chris and Robyn of the Quarterdeck Restaurant, Narooma.
With The Gadflys playing and a booked out venue there was much to celebrate for the restaurant that had, like so many others, rose up from the challenges of bushfires and Covid to return to near normal with live music, cocktails and Mexican fare.
Host Chris Scroggy took the stage as to be expected however his introduction to The Gadflys came with a preamble that had the entire room a buzz.
Chris announced that The Gadflys would be the last in an incredibly long line of performers that had graced his stage over the twenty years that he and Robyn have been owners.
Their transformation from a simple boatshed into a South Coast icon for live music and the waterside experience of dining is something that both are proud of. As too is the sense of pride realising the many staff they have employed and trained over the years.
The Quarterdeck has become so much more than a tiki bar and restaurant. For so many it became a temporary home during the bushfires.
Being a humble man Chris didn't mention any of the hundreds of helping-hands that he and Robin had selflessly given to the community. Instead he cut to the chase and announced that The Quarterdeck had been sold.
Chris indicated that Robyn would be retiring from hospitality, but with a glint in his eye he indicated that his passion for live music and providing a venue might well continue in a new project. One day.
The Gadflys (Phil and Mick Moriarty, Elmo Reid and Pete Velzen) were terrific. Two sets with an encore with a mix of new and old.
To close the night Chris and Robyn climbed up to the stage and to a standing ovation said their final farewells to the many music fans who had supported them for so many years.
It was indeed a moment in the history of South Coast music venues and a deserving farewell to a couple passionate in supporting, and presenting, live music.
The Quarterdeck will continue trading as a restaurant until the new owners take over.
Watch this space.
