Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Jarrad Cliffe, the owner and operator of Barista Cliffe, a small coffee trailer based in Moranbah. I launched the business to serve miners as they head out to different mine sites, making sure they start their day with a quality barista-made coffee and a hearty breakfast. I usually set up at the Goonyella Roadside stop near the council depot, across from Onsite Company.
When did you start in the mining industry, and what was your first job?
My first real connection to the mining industry began with Barista Cliffe – serving coffees and breakfast to the crews that keep the industry moving. It might not be a direct role on site, but being part of their routine gives me a strong link to the industry. My first job, though, was at McDonald’s, and it taught me a lot. I gained a basic understanding of business, learned about product quality control, and built-up management skills through a Certificate III in Retail. That early experience gave me a solid base for running my own business.
How different is your job now to what you wanted to be when you were a kid?
I’ve always been interested in preparing and serving food, so it made sense to go into hospitality. I’ve lived in Moranbah since 2006, my dad moved our family here from Townsville when he took on a role as a WHS Officer in the mines and that’s how I ended up with such a strong connection to the region and industry.
What’s a usual day at work entail?
I’m up around 4:30am. I hook up the trailer, head to my regular spot and serve from 5am to 9:30am. On a busy day, I’ll make around 40 to 50 coffees. After the morning rush, I head home to sort out admin, things like restocking supplies, paying bills, uploading receipts and planning. The behind-the-scenes work might not be glamorous, but it’s essential to keep things running smoothly.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best part is catching up with my regulars. I enjoy making great coffee, but I also enjoy the chats. Being a small part of their morning routine means a lot to me.
The worst thing?
The bookkeeping. I’m not a fan of the paperwork side of things, but it has to be done or it just builds up. I’ve learned to keep on top of it so it doesn’t become overwhelming.
Biggest challenge to overcome?
Learning to make consistently good coffee on an espresso machine was tough in the beginning. It took a lot of trial and error to get it right but it’s something I was determined to master.
What’s something about your job that would surprise people?
Probably how early the days start, and how much work happens behind the scenes. Most people just see the coffee window open, but there’s a lot that goes into keeping the trailer running. People might also be surprised by how involved I am in the community outside the business. I volunteer as a radio presenter at 4RFM, I’m a Field Member with the SES, Officer Commanding for the 145 Army Cadet Unit, and I also volunteer with Oasis Life Church. It keeps me busy, but I enjoy giving back to the community.
What’s your best advice for people entering the industry?
Stick to your passion and don’t lose sight of your goals. There’ve been times when it would’ve been easier to walk away, maybe take a job in the mines or something that pays more, but I’ve stayed focused on building my business. I’ve done training, attended workshops and kept learning. If you really care about what you’re doing, that commitment will carry you through the tough patches.
The mining industry gets more than its fair share of criticism. What’s your view of our industry and the impact it has?
The mining industry is vital, not just for Australia but especially for the Isaac region. So much of the country’s resources come from here and the industry supports towns like Moranbah. It creates jobs, keeps businesses going and helps build strong regional communities. There’s more to it than people think.
