It seems that only yesterday Christmas was still somewhere in the future, to be dealt with at another time. Yet, I woke early this morning and here it was, the usual bleak Christmas sky that seems to accompany any public holiday.

Stumbling from my bed I forewent my usual coffee and hit the road north to treat myself to the best that the coast has to offer. You guessed it…. I am sat in my car with the rain pouring down, by the Noosa River. In front of me is Jetty 17 and of course Old Salt Coffee.

I arrived before the crowd and enjoyed a large Flat White while chatting with Rhian as she busied herself getting ready for the rush. At around seven a friend of Rhian’s, Rhianna, arrived to help out with taking orders and dealing with the cash drawer. Just in time as the punters started to roll in shortly after.

Today is the first birthday of Old Salt here on the river, Rhian having opened for trade Christmas Day last year, so it is Happy Birthday and Congratulations on a year well spent satisfying the cravings of an addicted following of loyal subjects. I heard a rumour that Old Salty is getting a name today, but more on that later if the rumour is true.

Despite the morning showers, there were plenty of folk out walking either themselves or their dogs with a goodly number stopping off for a morning cuppa. A few arrived by car voicing their gratitude that they had found a coffee shop open on this holiday of holidays. I watched a salubrious Ford Mustang cruise by only to return a short while later having found what he was after……. coffee!!

Right now, it seems that the weather has closed in and rain is falling steadily. This appears to have had little effect on those seeking to appease their addiction, sheltering as they wait under the scant eves and sail cloth that is not totally water proof

Behind Old Salt Coffee, Jetty 17 has opened for business and already several vessels have been hired by folk wishing a day on the river. Of all the holiday destinations in the world, Noosa has plenty to offer, from the surf beaches, national park walks and of course this beautiful river.

Ode To Old Salt Coffee

(To the rythme of Camp Grenada)

Christmas morning, outta coffee
take a ride in my jalopy
Heading north to Noosa River
Where I’ll find a way to cleanse my dirty liver

When I get there…., coffees brewing
It is fresh and…. there is no stewing
No better way to…. ease the liver
Than a cup of Old Salt Coffee by the river

Now the sun’s not…. hit the river
The light showers….. make me shiver
Folks out walking… in the morning
The best part of day is shortly after dawning

The crowds want to….ease their addiction
They are coming….. from all directions
Help is needed… Queue gets longer
Even tho the rain is falling even stronger.

Wait a minute…., it’s stopped raining,
Guys are swimming…., guys are sailing
If you’r doing…. nothing better
Come on down and get your coffee by the river