The Junction Café at Tondoon Gardens Celebrating our 1st Birthday

What began as a humble café in Tannum Sands has grown into a thriving local institution with a strong community heart. Junction Café, led by Melissa and Matthew Smart since 2018, has become a well-loved fixture in the Gladstone Region—serving not just coffee and meals, but also connection and warmth. This month, The Junction proudly celebrates its first birthday at its Tondoon location, marking a year of creating a welcoming space that brings people together.

Melissa, who originally worked as the café’s chef, took the reins with her husband Matthew to transform the space into a welcoming haven for locals. Their vision was simple yet powerful: create a place where people could gather, feel at home, and enjoy food made with care.