General News
6 August, 2026
Ice was just the start in ‘86
A BELOVED Mossman institution has marked a major milestone, with Mossman Ice, Bait and Tackle celebrating 40 years in business.
The popular shop is still located at its original site, adjacent to the Raintrees, at 2 Foxton Ave, Mossman, where it has been since 1 July 1986.
Business owners Pat and Jim Hutton have seen many changes over the years and have survived to tell the story.
“We can honestly say we’ve had our ups and downs, surviving the Global Financial Crisis, Covid, cyclones and floods like Jasper and sadly, more recently, the downturn of the sugar mill, which has long been the heartbeat of our Shire,” Ms Hutton said.
“We’ve certainly seen some changes in our beautiful Shire, both good and bad. We even joke and say BS, meaning ‘before Skase’.”
The couple say they have proudly survived and taken it all in their stride.
“Honestly, we love what we have achieved and certainly have met some wonderful characters along the way, both local and visitors,” Mr Hutton said.
In the early days, Jim Hutton was already well known for doing the milk run north of Mossman. Offering small party bags up to 30 kilo jumbo blocks, it wasn’t long before the business started to take off with the support of locals.
“Got to love the fishing stories, you hear about the one that got away and how bloody good some people think they are at fishing. All joking, of course,” Ms Hutton said.
Both Mr and Ms Hutton firmly believe that small communities survive on locals supporting locals.
“Thanks to our awesome community, we are partners in life, business and maybe the odd crime ... just joking,” Ms Hutton said.
