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Joans mother Alice, whilst holidaying in Warburton liked the town so much she decided to purchase "Hazelwood" which was a Fruit Salad Farm. Joan was 14 at the time and had left school to become a member of the business. Joan, her mother and elder brother Charlie worked hard to build up the business and it soon became the "Hub and Bub" of Warburton. Her sister Chris also joined into the family business a couple of years later. Joan remained in Warburton until she was 18, when the decision to sell Hazelwood was made. Mr and Mrs Potton purchased the business and their daughter and son in law continued its operation.
Joan, Alice and sister Chris purchased a Milk Bar in the Melbourne suburb of Mc Kinnon. Unfortunately the milk bar was not to their liking and was sold. They looked around for other businesses, but nothing appealed.
Eventually they decided to purchase land at Gilerts Gully, Marysville, a small sleepy town in the hills. A house was built, cooking facilities installed and "The Fruit Salad Farm" was established. Once again all three worked hard and the business became a great success. During the war period it reached its peak. Many would wander down the gully for fruit salad and cream, freshly squeezed orange juice or Lemonade. Afternoon tea consisted of a pot of tea, scones, jam & cream and Joan's delectable cakes. Joan did the cooking, Alice helped with the washing up and setting of trays and Chris waited on the customers. The Fruit Salid Farm still operates today, with the town of Marysville becoming a popular tourist destination.
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