Community
17 July, 2025
Dining era comes to end
HOSPITALITY pioneer Gary Low has retired from Dundee’s Restaurants after nearly 40 years, as the iconic Cairns dining brand also announces the closure of its Cairns Aquarium venue this weekend.
Mr Low, who first became involved with Dundee’s in 1986 and became sole owner in 1989, helped turn the restaurant into a staple of the local dining scene. Under his leadership, Dundee’s championed Australian ingredients and delivered regional flavours to both locals and tourists long before native cuisine became a national trend.
“It’s been an incredible journey,” Mr Low said. “I feel deeply proud of what Dundee’s has become over the past 39 years. From the very beginning, it’s always been about the people – our loyal customers, hardworking team, and supportive partners.”
Dundee’s at the Cairns Aquarium will serve its final meals on Sunday, July 20. Since opening in 2019, the unique dining experience has welcomed more than 34,500 guests over six and a half years. A farewell Sunday sesh is planned to thank the community and celebrate the venue’s contribution to local tourism and hospitality. The space will soon be home to a new restaurant operated by national chain Squire’s Loft.
Meanwhile, Dundee’s on the Waterfront, located beneath the Harbour Lights Hotel in the bustling marina dining precinct, remains the heart of the operation. The team will relaunch their popular waterfront brunch from Monday, July 28, served daily from 9.30am to 11.30am.
Long-time general manager Tina Wort, executive chef James Wort and finance lead Marion Wright will now lead the business. “While we’ll miss the aquarium venue, this new phase allows us to focus all our energy on the restaurant that started it all. We’re so grateful to Gary for his leadership, his vision and his trust,” Ms Wort said.
Mr Low leaves behind a legacy of innovation, resilience and community service. From mentoring young hospitality workers to supporting tourism initiatives and local fundraisers, he has been a quiet force in shaping Cairns as a food destination.
Although stepping back from daily operations, Mr Low will continue to support the business in an advisory role. “Dundee’s will always be family to me,” he said. “And I know Tina and James will continue to nurture it and help it grow.”
As the restaurant prepares to mark its 40th anniversary in 2026, the team invites the community to celebrate a legacy built on family, flavour and a deep love for Cairns.
