It’s a sad, suddenly less sweet day down here in Melbourne this morning, with word filtering through that the highly beloved and iconic Footscray institution Olympic Doughnuts will not reopen its doors, bringing a wonderful 40-year story of community, passion, and delicious sugary treats to an end.
The humble doughnut stand, with its unmistakable location nestled in the armpit of Footscray Station, had been closed for some time due to the health issues of its owner and operator Nick Tsiligiris. But last night Tsiligiris’ family, through the City of Maribyrnong council, confirmed that Tsiligiris would be hanging up the tongs and retiring, and that the store would be retired alongside him.
“The owners of Footscray’s iconic Olympic Doughnuts have asked us to share the news their much-loved store will not be reopening.
The difficult decision to close the Footscray institution was recently made by the Tsiligiris family in light of Nick’s on-going health issues. Nick’s family would like to thank the community for their ongoing support, particularly those who have been devoted fans since the van first began rolling doughnuts in the 1970s.As his daughter Gina said, “Nick loved his Footscray and it loved him back tenfold.”Thanks for the memories, Nick – you and your delicious jam doughnuts will forever remain part of Footscray’s rich history and culture.”
Nick’s daughter Gina Hasapis further commented on a fanpage set up for Olympic Doughnuts after the news of the store’s closure broke.
“On behalf of Nick and his family I would like to thank everyone for their love and tremendous support.It means the world to Nick and to us to see how much everyone loved him and his delicious doughnuts.I would like to let everyone know that Nick in turn loved “his community,” his customers, and Footscray.You were all his family and his home away from home.“
The store has been operating at Footscray Station since the 1970s, drawing in locals, commuters, and people from across the city making specific trips to get hold of Nick’s legendary jam doughnuts, which achieved an enduring cult status in the city arguably second only to South Melbourne dim sims.
When Footscray Station was renovated in recent years, the store was moved and maintained by the local council, eventually being upgraded to a permanent new building in its original spot.
Thanks for everything and godspeed, Nick. We love you.
Source: City of Maribyrnong/Facebook.
Photo: City of Maribyrnong/Facebook.
