It’s Ekka week and at this time of year Jesse Mcdonald is usually set up and selling Dagwood dogs at the RNA showgrounds.
But Covid-19 meant the annual August show had to be canceled.
To still earn a living Mr Mcdonald decided to set up on his property in Doolandella, opening his stall on Blunder Road each day for the last few months and it’s become a hit with locals.
But his roadside pop-up has come under fire from Brisbane City Council, who told him he could not trade on a residential property and there were safety concerns with the location on Blunder Road.
They’ve issued him with a verbal warning to shut up shop by close of business today or risk an infringement notice.
Mr McDonald says he will continue to operate regardless and he’s even offered to move his stand further onto the property to allow customers more room for queuing and parking.
“We thought that ticked all the boxes they asked of us,” Mr Macdonald told the ABC.
Brisbane City Council did offer him a nearby park to operate from instead, but the Dagwood Dog Vendor said it’s not suitable for business.
Mr Macdonald said keeping the stall in the known and frequented location means he can afford to keep and support his staff.
“I’ve actually given work to another family who is out of work in the same industry. I’ve employed one of their employees and that’s keeping them going as well.” He told the ABC.
Mr Macdonald’s been told if he reopens tomorrow he’ll receive either an infringement or enforcement notice.
But even with those threats, the father has vowed to keep trading.
