They'd been on the Gold Coast for 20 years where they ran a successful swimming pool supply business. They were seeking a change of life style for their family, including two sons, Mitchell who is now a carpenter on the Sunshine Coast, and Jackson who is still at high school in Proserpine
The history of the Tavern is that it was constructed in the mid '90s but it didn't get past the "shell" stage. The fellow who subsequently bought it were friends of Neil and Kaye and spoke about its possibilities, as they sought to remain small business-people, so they, in turn took up the challenge.
They felt they could provide a community hub with a combination of restaurant, community function rooms (indoor and outdoor), a convivial meeting place with a bar (wine, spirits, beer and soft-drink), indoor and outdoor gathering areas, a children's area, a pool table and plenty of parking. They set out a five-year plan (since extended) to fit out the Tavern from its bare shell and establish this business, as there was nothing of this type of facility in Midge Point at that time.
In the process of establishing the Midge Point Tavern Neil and Kaye Brooks set about to make it "family friendly" on the first part, and on the second, engaged a Consultancy group to undertake a 'Sensitivity Report' as to the application of Poker Machines, although they already had a Gaming Licence.
The Sensitivity Report came back that Poker Machines at the Tavern would be contrary to the spirit and welfare of the Midge Point community and the surrounding areas.
Many young families were moving into the area, the mines were opening up and many miners were keen on the Midge Point community as it provided something of a haven for their families while they were away for days at a time.
Neil and Kaye are both entrepreneurs and philanthropists, as they support local projects such as the Volunteer Marine Rescue, assist with funerals, arrange an official "Anzac Memorial" for Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services, and have helped locals raise funds for projects such as cancer research by providing their facility for a fund raising 'do'.
Their decision not to incorporate Pokies has borne fruit amongst the locals. The restaurant has become the focal point for many with its very reasonably priced meals and quiet ambience. The menus are planned personally by Neil, Kaye and Chef Marc Glass who hails from Scotland. Restaurant customers includes bus tour groups from as far afield as Mackay to the south and Proserpine to the north, who mostly appreciate the morning teas or lunches. Even business groups and Mackay Council meet on the site, over a cuppa or a scone or a hearty meal.
Has 'not having Pokies' paid off?
Neil and Kaye say it has, abundantly. Their on-site analysis is that their bar business could not survive alone, rather it's their family restaurant and the community atmosphere that has paid dividends for both themselves and the community.
Well-Being Australia has its Basil Sellers Laguna Quays Respite facility not a three minute drive from the Midge Point Tavern. Chairman Mark Tronson recommends the Tavern to their missionary visitors, and has received very satisfactory reports.
Mark and Delma Tronson themselves entertained missionary personnel at the Tavern on their last visit to the respite house. Respite co-ordinators Sean and Sue Spencer, the Respite facility builder Steve Paine and his wife Jenny and West Mackay Uniting Church ministers Euan and Yvonne McDonald who have hosted numerous Country Town Tour missions. Each occasion had a 'wow factor' and not a poker machine in sight.