AT Crusoe Cafe in Raby Bay Harbour, the coffee is hot, the pace is fast, and the atmosphere is filled with friendly chatter – thanks in large part to barista Thea Campo.
Ms Campo, who describes herself as “a bit of an all-rounder”, has worked in the hospitality industry for six years and says her typical day is “fast-paced and consistent, filled with making great coffee and sharing laughs and banter with our regular customers”.
“It’s always busy, but there’s a rhythm to it that I really enjoy,” she said.
Growing up, Ms Campo was captivated by the art of coffee making.
“I was drawn to this role because I grew up watching baristas work, and I was fascinated by how skilled and calm they were under pressure,” she said.
“That early interest turned into a passion, and it’s what led me here.”
While the hustle of a busy cafe might not be for everyone, Ms Campo finds peace in her surroundings.
“Definitely the view,” she said, when asked what she enjoys most about working at Raby Bay Harbour.
“Opening in the mornings and watching the sun rise over the water is something I never get tired of,” she said.
“It’s such a peaceful and inspiring way to start the day.”
She takes pride in her ability to stay composed during peak periods.
“I’m proud of my ability to work under pressure while still delivering consistent, high-quality coffee,” she said.
“Being able to stay fast and focused during peak times, without letting standards slip, is something I’ve worked hard at – and it’s something I take pride in.”
Since joining the team, Ms Campo said she’s grown significantly, both professionally and personally.
“I’ve definitely grown in my customer service and communication skills.
“I’ve also developed time management, multitasking under pressure, teamwork, and even leadership when things get hectic.
“Every shift is a learning experience,” she said.
It’s the people, though, who keep her motivated day after day.
“The people, without a doubt. I love the team I work with – they make every day fun.
“And the regular customers I’ve built connections with over the years bring a real sense of community to what I do.”
She describes the business culture in three words: “Supportive, fast-paced, friendly.”
And while coffee may be the cornerstone of her job, Ms Campo said many might underestimate the complexity of the role.
“People might not realise how much multitasking goes into being a barista,” she said.
“It’s not just making coffee – it’s remembering orders, maintaining quality, managing time, interacting with customers, and keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.”
Her personal motto sums up her approach to work: Start strong, stay consistent.
“It reminds me to bring energy to every shift and to never let the quality of my work drop, no matter how busy it gets,” she said.
Away from the cafe, Ms Campo enjoys photography – an interest that offers a creative and calming contrast to the fast-paced nature of hospitality.
“It’s a hobby that lets me slow down and notice the little details in life,” she said.
“It gives me a creative outlet outside of the hustle and bustle of hospitality.”
