The company behind iconic Gold Coast seafood restaurant Omeros Bros has been placed into liquidation amid debts alleged to exceed $2 million and an escalating dispute within the Omeros family.
The Federal Court ordered the company, directed by Nick Omeros and his son John “Johnny” Omeros, to be wound up on Wednesday following action by the Australian Taxation Office.
Omeros Bros operated at Marina Mirage for more than 35 years before closing in November to make way for a proposed $500 million hotel development.
Liquidator David Hambleton said it was too early to determine the company’s total debts. However, documents filed in separate court proceedings claimed it owed more than $2.15 million, including almost $1 million to the ATO and more than $400,000 to trade creditors.
Right: John Omeros. Picture by Lisa McMahon.
The liquidation comes amid a family dispute over a new Omeros-branded restaurant. Nick previously launched legal action against John and two related companies, but the proceedings were discontinued last month.
John described the case as “all nonsense”, adding: “Nothing to see here.”
Nick’s lawyer, Nicholas Baker, said the 83-year-old had been unwell and relied on his children John, Sara and Helene while the company experienced financial difficulties. He said Nick maintained he had not known the extent of its debts and believed the restaurant’s revenue was sufficient to cover its obligations.
Mr Baker said Nick felt “devastated and let down” by the three children and did not want to see them again.
John and Sara announced plans in April to revive Omeros Bros at a new 140-seat venue on the Isle of Capri. The restaurant ultimately opened as Johnny Omeros on Capri and continues to trade.
John is also facing separate Supreme Court proceedings brought by the ATO in June and has yet to file a defence.
Source: The Courier Mail
Dining and Cooking