Home Hill News and Coffee Celebrates Three Years of Community Connection

When Burdekin locals Ken and Shay Linton took the reins of Home Hill News in 2022, they knew they had big shoes to fill, following an 18-year legacy left by Shay’s parents. Three years, a rebrand, and a full expansion of products later, the couple have seen the business blossom into Home Hill News and Coffee—a thriving community favourite now proudly celebrating its third birthday.

The project was set in motion when Ken, a local farmer, and Shay, who had always wanted to own a coffee shop, decided to take a risk.

"There wasn't any coffee shop in Home Hill,” said Ken.

“Ken didn’t see a future staying on the farm, and I had always talked about having a coffee shop, so we just said 'let’s give this a go',” added Shay.

And the rest is history. The Linton's hit the ground running, determined to make their own fresh mark on the long-standing family business.

"We had to diversify," said Shay. "When my mum and dad had it, it was all newspapers, magazines and giftware. We decided to add in the coffee, not knowing how it would go—but it's been amazing."

From there, they rapidly expanded the shop’s giftware offerings, branching out into homeware and even toys. But beyond their products, Home Hill News and Coffee has grown to not only serve good coffee, but also cultivate a reputation as the local hub of connection and conversation.

"We get the regulars, and then especially the travellers—hearing all their stories has been nice. You learn about so many different aspects of life," said Ken.

"It's nice to be able remember people's names and orders, and build a relationship beyond [just a transaction]. And I think that makes customers feel good too," said Shay.

As Home Hill News and Coffee prepares to celebrate its third birthday, the hands behind it remain grateful for the community support that has allowed them to thrive.

They do their best to reflect that gratitude by giving back. This year, they are Silver Sponsors of the Home Hill Harvest Festival and have continued to sponsor and donate to the Burdekin Netball, Home Hill Cricket Association, Home Hill Golf, Burdekin Netball Deb of the Year, Home Hill High Students Ball, and many local schools over the past three years.

"We are proud to be able to give back to our local community through sponsorship. We enjoy being able to support our wonderful community as they have supported us over the years."

While community support has been central to their success, Ken and Shay are quick to point out that their team also plays a huge role in keeping the business thriving.

"None of this would be possible without our hard-working staff members Desley, Louisa, Brea, Mackenzie, Bella, Ruby, Isla and Indi, who turn up for each shift ready to take on whatever the day brings or whatever crazy food idea Shay has thought of overnight."

Since taking over the long-running Home Hill News, Shay and Ken Linton have reimagined it as much more than a place to pick up the paper. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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