Table of Contents
By Brady Jones
For Joanne, taking over Tractor 828 came as a surprise– even to herself! It was love at first sight when the lease sign appeared:
“The opportunity just arose, and I thought you know what, I’m going to do something for myself –– I’ve done everything for everybody else for so long. I’ve always worked in child protection and social work, and people always commented ‘you never do anything for yourself!’ Being a local, I’ve always loved this cafe. It’s got such character and a lot of charm to it. The locals love it.” – Joanne
From losing everything she owned in the March 2021 floods, to gaining four foster children and caring for her late mother the past 14 months, Joanne has slowly been piecing her life back together. Despite this, she shows up with a smile on her face and prioritises connecting with people and creating a great atmosphere.
Since starting at Tractor 828, she’s been embraced by a loving community of staff, customers and nearby residents with the outpouring of flowers and well wishes online.
It’s been a hard couple years for Joanne, and having done spit-roast catering in the past, she’s tackling a dine-in cafe for the first time. From what we’ve heard the reception has been great. All staff members chose to stay on, and coupled with busy weekends they’ve had at least 50 people return and give the cafe a fresh start.
Future Plans Underway
Joanne has always wanted to do a cafe and plans to cultivate its title as a ‘local spot’, ensuring local staff and local supplies stay for good. Construction of outdoor table shelters have already been completed as the cafe will start to cater for events and functions.
A large focus for Joanne is welcoming more children through kid-friendly spaces, making the cafe a great spot for young families. Such a place wouldn't be complete without a little wooden tractor in the works, that’ll be sure to have budding country-kids obsessed.
Someday it’ll hopefully serve as a central place to bond, gather and celebrate for locals. Joanne is building this dream, from little tweaks like catering for tradies in the morning to grand plans of night markets with local vendors, car boot sales, karaoke theme nights, live music and spit roasts.
Tractor 828’s Place in the Community
Now a roadside cafe for nearly 10 years, Tractor 828 was once a service station for those travelling along Ebenezer’s Sackville road, not far from Wiseman’s Ferry and Sackville Ski Gardens.
It’s grown to foster not only local foodies but also morning cyclists and a vibrant automotive community, attracting classic motorcycles and restored cars.
Tractor 828 is a perfect spot to enjoy breakfast and a morning coffee with mates, family, or even your furry friend. We’re excited to see it flourish under Joanne’s guidance, and watch the power of a good meal bring The Hawkesbury together.
Be sure to head on down and say hello – and don’t forget to grab a baked good on your way out!
