A beaut about the SEQLD region is that within a 45-minute drive you could be passing sandy paths and sparkled waves, or you could be dancing through the countryside which holds both history and incredible character. About a 45 minute journey north of the Sunshine Coast you will drive through a historic town of Gympie where the land is big and so is its character. Like its hometown folks, the businesses that nestle in Gympie are full of authentic charisma and hidden goods. Just a 2 minute detour of the main strip through Gympie you will find Swing By. Small in space yet full of charm, a location serving up local specialty coffee, local baked goods and of course you will be greeted by the lovely Erin, owner of Swing By who has the biggest heart and smile for all her customers. Be sure to keep an eye out for CEO Theo! He will accept all forms of cuddles and pats 🐕 Let’s get into it!

Hey Erin! 👋 Introduce yourself and your go to choice of coffee? ☕

Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast beaches, I made the move to Gympie in the midst of the pandemic to a beautiful old Queenslander home. Then came a little Border Collie pup and some chickens, the country move was complete! I am admittedly a fellow coffee addict which came in handy with the early mornings and broken night sleeps with my pup, starting with a smooth and creamy cappuccino with a touch of rapadura sugar (I think it compliments the flavour of coffee beautifully) and later in the day when I need a jolt, I grab a little vanilla piccolo for a sugar and caffeine hit.

What was the inspiration behind opening Swing By? 

Coming from the beach swim and coffee culture I wanted to create a little place that people could make their own coffee rituals. Grabbing the crucial first cup of the day, a morning tea get away from the office, a spot to catch up with loved ones, or a nice little corner to get lost in a book. I have always craved work life balance, which is rare in hospitality, so to be able to build it for myself doing something I love feels very fulfilling.

What is special about the Gympie region that some might not know about?

 Gympie has some really great small businesses being created by both local and recently relocated people. Fresh takes on existing services, new food and beverage spots being opened, and lots of artisan’s products and groups. It’s an honour to be counted amongst them.

Any special memories or stories about some of your regular customers?

I have THE most amazing customers! Some have picked up how much of a plant lover I am and have started to bring in cuttings and full grown plants to add to my shop collection. It’s more than that though, they have welcomed me into not only their daily routines but also their lives. In the near future I have the thrill of attending the wedding of a customer turned dear friend. To have made such strong connections in a new community is so special!

We’re stoked to be partnered with you and your business!

Before I opened Swing By, I worked in the same space for Beauty and The Beard who chose to partner with the Roastery. I was able to be trained and supported by the roastery team so I could produce the coffee at its finest. If that wasn’t enough when I was in need, they went out of their way to help secure me a spot on the team of another amazing café they partner with. So, when it came to opening my own there was nobody else I even considered! They are professional yet have also made me feel I’m a part of a big coffee loving family.

What’s next for Swing By?

There is a second project being added to the Swing By brand in the near future, it’s still in the works so you’ll just have to swing by yourself and check it out!

Do yourself a favour and explore this gem next time you’re hitting the countryside or on your next road trip. The morning bun and a cheeki Long Black (or Flat White for ya milk based drinkers 😉) is a true combo. Catch Erin and her CEO Theo at 250 Mary St, Gympie QLD 4570

Note from author: I have worked with Erin for some years now and I cannot express my proudness of this women. Both her skill development and knowledge is second to none and I knew the day I met her she was destined for great things. It fills me with joy to see this incredible woman work so hard for what she has achieved. - K