Probe into Emma’s closure

The Department of Commerce is investigating a complaint regarding the closure of one of Rockingham’s iconic boardwalk restaurants.

In a separate complaint, a customer of Emma’s on the Boardwalk has come forward to the Telegraph claiming she was left out of pocket following the foreshore eatery’s closure.

The Telegraph understands the restaurant, which has picturesque views of Cockburn Sound, shut up shop in mid-December.

Following its closure, a note was left on its door saying: “It is with regret and deep sadness that Emma’s has had to shut its doors for business”.

Rockingham resident Margaret Walker said she bought a $150 voucher on December 12, which she planned to give to her daughter as a Christmas present.

“(The restaurant) was happy to take my money on the day they were closing,” she said.

“All (they) said to me was to make sure (I) made a booking because they were really busy.”

Department of Commerce director of retail and services Dave Hillyard confirmed the department had received an inquiry about the restaurant closure, separately from Mrs Walker.

“A complaint came through on New Year’s Eve and we are doing the preliminary inquiries to see what is going on,” he said.

Mrs Walker said she had no luck trying to get in contact with the owners of the restaurant. “It makes you feel quite angry because you work hard for your money,” she said.

Rockingham Kwinana Chamber of Commerce president Danny Stent said it was unfortunate Emma’s had ceased trading.

“I’m not sure why it has closed but we are hopeful something else will open up,” he said.

“The restaurant strip is important for Rockingham tourism.”

Mr Hillyard advised customers who had purchased a voucher by credit card to contact their credit card provider and request a reverse charge.

The Telegraph contacted proprietors Alcol Pty Ltd and manager Alan Quinn for comment but did not receive a response at the time of going to press.

For more information, contact the department’s Consumer Protection advice line 1300 30 40 54.

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