05/05/2026
After 18 incredible years, the time has come for us to turn the page and say goodbye to Josh’s first love - The Butchers Hook.
From our beginnings back in 2008 to today, this business has been so much more than just a shop — it’s been a huge part of our lives, our family, and our community. Over nearly two decades, we’ve seen it all: the highs that made our hearts full and the challenges that tested us in ways we never expected.
We opened our doors just as the world was facing the Global Financial Crisis, and since then we’ve navigated changing retail landscapes, rising costs, evolving technology, and of course the profound impact of COVID-19. Like so many small businesses across Australia, there were moments we had to dig deep, adapt quickly, and lean on the support around us just to keep going. Running a small business is not always easy. It’s early mornings, late nights, risks, resilience, and a whole lot of heart. But it has also been deeply rewarding, and we are so proud of what has been built here.
To our amazing customers: thank you. Thank you for choosing us, for supporting local, for your loyalty, your kindness, and the countless conversations and connections we’ve shared over the years. Many of you became more than customers — you became friends. We truly will miss you all.
To our incredible staff, past and present: we could never have done this without you. Your dedication, hard work, and care are what truly brought this business to life every single day.
To our trusted suppliers: thank you for your reliability, your partnerships, and for growing alongside us over the years.
And to centre management: Gerard, Kyle + Eithne - thank you for your ongoing support and guidance — it has never gone unnoticed.
To our Parents + Siblings, you guys have always been our village. Every Christmas + Easter helping us out by looking after our babes when we couldn’t be there. You took them to light shows, markets + carols bringing the magic to their lives when we couldn’t, because of the business. We love and appreciate you all.
To Josh aka Mr Hook: You have worked so extremely hard to get the shop where it is today and the kids and I know it was all for us. We actually couldn’t be any prouder of you if we tried. We know this next month or so is going to be difficult saying goodbye to people you have built so many relationships with, but we are all behind you 100% of the way.. (be ready for the tears folks) Our last day of trade is 13th June 2026 so please make sure you come on down before then to see the big guy 🙏🏻
New Owners:
Introducing John + Amy.
They currently own 2 stores - Rump Shakers Southern River + Byford. We wish them all the best for the future and don’t worry they promise us they will take care of all our loved staff and customers ❤️
What’s next for the Wilkies? We have no idea 😅 I do know something though… Josh is genuinely a great human, hardworking, honest, trustworthy and so easy to be around so now that this door has closed - so many new ones will open when the time is right. But I think we may just need a holiday first ☀️🍻🏖️
While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, we do so with immense gratitude and pride. This isn’t just the end of a business chapter — it’s the closing of a very special era in our lives.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Josh, Jaye, Milly, Poppy + Arlo Wilkie
