What I See with Peter Fiorenza: The end of an era as Skeetas is handed to the next generation

When I was a kid, we didn’t go out for dinner very often. By that, I mean dining out at a cafe or restaurant. So, when we did it was quite an event. Back then, there really wasn’t a lot to choose from here in Geraldton, but one family set out to change that. Colin and Vicky Cox decided to open a garden restaurant in their very own backyard on the side of the hill on George Road. The restaurant started off quite modestly, seating only a few people and serving traditional Australian fare. Colin and Vicky decided to call their new venture Skeetas, Colin’s nickname for Vicky and it has stuck for more than 30 years. Over time, the eatery has changed locations, and today sits on the waterside overlooking Geraldton’s marina, offering sensational views and a friendly charm that has made Skeetas quintessentially Geraldton. Don’t get too worried, the restaurant is staying put. However, there will be a slight change to the quintessential Geraldton atmosphere. Hosts Colin and Vicky have decided to become part of the burgeoning grey-nomad lifestyle and retire. That’s right, Colin has decided to leave the much-loved business in the hands of his daughter Haley, put Vicky on the back seat of his motorbike and drive off into the sunset. Well, I’m not quite sure if it will actually be like that, but the man who has overseen daily activity in the establishment will be taking it a little easier. Yes, a bit easier than sitting up at his so-called makeshift office overlooking the peaceful marina while sipping on a macchiato — he will be putting the hard yards behind him. In all seriousness, though, in some ways it will be the end of an era. Colin and Vicky have worked their backsides off for more than three decades, rolling with the punches in an industry that is ever evolving. They have worked through the economic ups and downs of the local community, yet have remained a mainstay for many of us, who have also evolved with Skeetas. People know that Skeetas is a big part of my life and many others, who return again and again, to get what they know — old-fashioned friendly, family service. Recently, daughter Haley has started to make her imprint on the business, and now, along with her husband will take Skeetas into its next, exciting chapter. It would be so heartening for Colin and Vicky to know that Haley’s children, the next generation, are also learning the restaurant game, both out front and in the kitchen. There is no doubt it is sure to be a long-lasting legacy. And aren’t we happy about that. Peter Fiorenza hosts Fiorenza on Sunday between 10am and noon on Radio MAMA