Serving the people of Lough Gowna and beyond
MEET THE FINALISTS: BEST IN HOSPITALITY
The Pikers’ Lodge has long looked after Lough Gowna, providing everything from food to accommodation and an idyllic wedding venue or function room on the shores of the many lakes around.
As the name suggests, the business is particularly popular amongst anglers, many of whom return to the area each year to compete at major fishing competitions held locally.
Having worked in pubs and bars throughout her life, Christina Brady Rawle took over the business in November 1994.
The Crossdoney native always enjoyed the “buzz” of working in hospitality and mixing with people, and knew this was the career for her. As soon as she moved in, she completely renovated the property from start to finish.
Down through the years, there were “good years and bad years”. She worked through the foot and mouth outbreak, the recession and the “difficult” pandemic but has “still survived” and intends to “keep going.”
Life in the Pikers Lodge is “full on”. From seven o’clock in the morning every day of the week, staff are up cooking breakfast for residents and the wider public. They also serve lunch and evening meals, and cater for local businesses.
There are 11 bedrooms in the establishment, as well as a large function room, two smaller dining rooms and a bar.
Some 12-14 people are employed there full-time and there are more employed part-time. Many of those employed have been with Christina “for a long time.”
Being “hands on” with the customer is essential for Christina, who spends much of her time at the main street premises, meeting and greeting people.
Running a business that caters to people in the area and surrounds in numerous ways gives her an immense sense of pride.
“You feel you’re facilitating the people of the area,” Christina says.
“They have the use of the facilities, it’s there for them, and we look after them.”
FIND US
For further information, drop into the Pikers’ Lodge in Gowna or check out their website:
www.pikerslodge.com
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FULL LIST OF FINALISTS
Read about the other three finalists in this category by visiting the stories below.
Feeding hearts and minds in Swanlinbar