Our Story

Our story began many moons ago when this site was used as the town ice works. It was then purchased by the Finlay family who were running their export business sending fresh, chilled snapper to Japan as well as major capital cities by air freight. They also sold fresh fish locally at the site.

In 1989, the national pilot strike had a huge impact on the business. Instead of closing doors, the Finlay family did a pivot as businesses do in times of strife. They brought the market to them and turned the space into Finlay’s Fresh Fish BBQ, serving up freshly cooked seafood meals and unforgettable conversation.

Current owners and managers, Warrick and Melissa Finlay purchased the restaurant in 2018 and renamed it Finlay’s Kalbarri. While they are not related to the original Finlay family that owned the premises, it is uncanny that they have the same surname.

The business continued to develop with the addition of a new, onsite brewery aptly named Finlay’s Brewing Co.

In 2020, with the advent of a global pandemic and closed borders, the business needed to pivot once more. We couldn’t bring the market to the beer so it was time to take the beer to the market. Canning machines were installed and our beer made it out the the market.

Unfortunately 2021 presented further delays with category 3, Cyclone Seroja but, thanks to our amazing team, we have bounced back again.

We are currently open as usual and looking forward to welcoming you to Finlay’s Kalbarri.