Iconic Tasmanian fish and chip shop for sale
Perched by the sea, this landmark Tasmanian fish and chip shop feels like a cruise without the seasickness, where freshly caught seafood comes wrapped in newspaper, and diners soak up sweeping views of the ocean.
Located on Dunalley Bay – just a 45-minute drive from Hobart – this quirky cluster has sparked strong interest as it hits the market with a $1 million price tag.
Established as a general store in the early 1900s, the unique property transformed during the fishing boom of the 1950s into a bustling seafood processing hub that played a key role in Tasmania’s renowned lobster and oyster industry.
Current owners Mark and Sandra Wray took over operations more than 20 years ago, and used the 1300-square-metre site to host the fish and chip shop, a boutique distillery and a gift shop.
“It really is an iconic waterfront location,” Mark says. “Diners can enjoy fish and chips two metres from the water with views of Mount Wellington in the distance.
“We are a pit stop on the way to the historic Port Arthur site, where almost 400,000 visitors travel to each year.
“Even with a population of just 350, Dunalley Bay really is a tourist gateway, with the property located in such a central and prominent area.’’
The expanse offers 600 square metres of floor space, including two large function rooms, a shop, ample storage spaces, a full bathroom, two shared toilets, a walk-in freezer and an office.
The fish-and-chips business is included in the sale, along with the general liquor licence.
The distillery business is also available for sale, presenting an exciting opportunity for new owners to expand and grow if they choose.
“There could be the addition of a whisky and gin house if the new owners wanted to go down that path,’’ Mark says.
He likened the tasting experience at the distillery to that of the waterfront Ardbeg Distillery in the Scottish Hebrides.
The current layout of this unique property offers the flexibility to maintain the successful status quo or transform operations.
“The property could be turned into anything with its prime location, like a showroom, flagship store or commercial hub, or kept as it is because the fish and chip side of the business runs itself,’’ Mark says.
Expansive stained-glass windows frame views of bobbing boats on the man-made Denison Canal, while hanging lobster pots and fishing relics add to the nostalgia.
“We have fishermen returning who used to work here on the lobster pots and oyster leases,’’ Mark says.
“These historic buildings are some of the only buildings to survive the 2013 bushfires.’’
The property sits on the crown waterfront reserve on a crown lease.
The precinct at 11 Fulham Road, Dunalley, Tasmania, is listed for sale for $1 million.
