By Matthew Raggatt
He made his name feeding the nation's fly-halves, now George Gregan has returned home to feed – and meet the caffeine needs – of the crowds at the Australian Institute of Sport.
The most-capped Wallaby opened his GG espresso @ AIS café this morning, his 18th café and first foray into the Canberra market.
CAFFEINE HIT: George Gregan serves up a coffee at his new Canberra cafe at the Australian Institute of Sport on Thursday.Credit: Rohan Thomson
The Brumbies champion donned an apron and served patrons on the landmark day - including Sports Minister Kate Lundy - but said it was his wife who had "pre-opening" nerves.
"I don't think the excitement goes out of it – my wife Erica's here and she is behind the coffee machine, and every time we open she likes to be here punching out the coffee, I think it's a bit like a game she gets a bit nervous," he said.
He said the AIS provided a natural fit, after an intention to open a shopfront in Canberra for many years.
"It's great to be here at the AIS becuase it's had a big part [in] my life, during my time with the Brumbies and also when I was a scholarship holder here from 1992 to 1994."
Mr Gregan said despite his name and local connection – his parents still live in the capital - the coffee would have to stand on its own.
"A lot of people go into GG espresso and wouldn't know what the GG stands for, so [personal reputation] does help for a short period, but the thing on which you pride yourself and makes your business is the quality of your product."
Australian Sports Commission chief executive Simon Hollingsworth – enjoying a double shot latte – said the quality of the coffee would appeal to the 500 staff at the AIS base.
"It's how I like it – strong but not overwhelming."
Senator Lundy – who admitted to having four or five decaff skinny lattes on some long Parliamentary days – said Mr Gregan's café opening was like having a celebrity chef in town, and would encourage more visitors.
"The reputation of a great coffee shop and café is a drawcard, and I think it will have a stimulating effect – pardon the pun – for people to visit the AIS," she said.
The licensed café seats 50 inside and also has an outdoor area, and will focus on light meals and snacks including gourmet burgers and sandwiches, salads and bakery items.
Disclosure: This reporter had a free coffee from the new establishment. It was good.