The mayor of Mount Alexander Shire is optimistic the legacy of Castlemaine Rock will live on, despite the recent announcement the Barnes family has finished production of the iconic sweet treat.
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Shire mayor Bronwen Machin said it will be very sad to see the business leave the family’s hands.
“It will be unfortunate to see a business that has been in Castlemaine for 165 years go,” Cr Machin said.
“I’m hoping someone does buy the business from them, it’s an iconic brand for the town and it’s a popular item for tourists.”
Cr Machin said it would be rare for the council to step in and help the business as “it’s really not our role”.
However, Cr Machin would like to see a level of recognition for Castlemaine Rock’s contribution to the town.
“We haven’t been approached to do a monument,” Cr Machin said.
“If we have an outcome that isn’t a monument to something that is dead, but praised for something that can go on living, that’s a far better outcome.”
“But what I think would be useful would be to acknowledge them and it would be from the whole community.
“Something to say we will miss you and that it would be great for it to continue one way or another.
“It would also build the business value for a potential buyer.”
Fifth generation confectioner Peter Barnes said it would be an honour for the family to be recognised.
“If there were to be a monument, it would be great,” Mr Barnes said.
“However, we’ve always been a very humble family and have never really looked out to gain recognition, we’ve just been happy making our lollies.
“The best case scenario would be for somebody to buy the business and for it to keep going.”
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