HAWKS NEST definitely qualifies as a tourist destination.
But not everyone is on holidays.
One of the hardest working locals is Hawks Nest Newsagent Hugo Elstermann.
Monday to Friday, Hugo opens his doors at 5.30am to catch the early rises.
“The community is coming in earlier and earlier,” Hugo told News Of The Area.
But Hugo is so much more than a Newsagent.
He also runs the Post Office and he’s decided to extend its hours.
“Instead of 9am, we’re opening the Post Office at 8am Monday through Friday and Saturday morning as well,” Hugo said.
“It means you can do passport interviews early in the morning, and organise your photos if you’re time stretched,” Hugo said.
And of course there’s the regular postal services as well as banking operations on offer.
Hugo said Australia Post has agreed and supported the move to cater to local demand.
“They understood the benefits to the community.”
While Hugo works seven days a week, opening before the dawn and closing after sunset he’s a bit concerned the locals may want more.
“My theory is, now I’m opening the Post Office at 8am they’ll want to be able to do it at 7,” Hugo laughed.
The new opening time comes into effect this week.
By Margie TIERNEY
