Bakery manager Michelle Ash with Jacinta and Darren Old as they prepare to travel and enjoy life beyond Crusty Loaf Bakery.
After 18 remarkable years, Darren Old has sold the beloved Crusty Loaf Bakery in Yarrawonga, closing a chapter that was as much about community as about bread.
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For locals, the bakery has been a staple of the town, a place of warmth, laughter, and delicious baked goods.
Darren was born in Yarrawonga and his story with the bakery began in 1978, working for Bob Flannagan for two years in the same building he would eventually own.
For the next 10 years he travelled and worked in bakeries in Melbourne before returning north, owning bakeries in Corowa, Yarrawonga and Mulwala before he eventually bought the Crusty Loaf in 2008.
Crusty Loaf grew from a small local shop to a thriving business employing 25 staff and serving the public and local clubs and pubs, every day of the year except Christmas Day.
Darren credits the success to his dedicated team, some who start their shifts at 11:30 pm.
The cornerstone has been manager Michelle Ash, who has been with Darren for more than 18 years.
Michelle has overseen daily operations, hired and managed staff, and ensured the bakery runs smoothly.
“I have loved working here; it hasn’t just been a job, it’s been my passion,” she said.
Michelle starts her day at 4 am and often doesn’t leave until 2:30 pm.
Her mentorship has helped young staff grow into confident professionals.
There are doctors, teachers and nurses who can all recall their first job at Crusty Loaf.
After 18 years, Michelle plans to travel, heading to Palm Cove, Lightning Ridge, and Esperance in Western Australia.
Darren Old with his loyal staff at Crusty Loaf.
Head baker James, who has been with Crusty Loaf for nine years, exemplifies the staff’s growth under Darren and Michelle.
Once quiet and reserved, he is now a confident leader in the kitchen, running operations with precision and pride.
Crusty Loaf has always had a fun side and Darren fondly recalls a fundraising initiative for Friends in Common where the four bakers posed naked for a calendar, with only bakery equipment covering their modesty.
“It was hilarious and raised money for a good cause,” he said.
Crusty Loaf bakers showed their sense of fun in 2010 when they almost stripped bare for a fundraising calendar.
The bakery is also known for its community spirit, regularly supporting local clubs, schools, and charities and especially families who are doing it tough.
Now Darren and his wife Jacinta, who has worked alongside him since they married three years ago, are excited to retire and travel.
They recently purchased a 25-acre hobby farm with an 1894 homestead and at 63, Darren is looking forward to the next chapter, while still contributing to the community in new ways.
Reflecting on his time at Crusty Loaf, Darren said the past 18 years have been challenging but also rewarding.
After passing on his rolling pin to new owners, he will be missed by his loyal staff and the countless customers who have grown up with the bakery.
His legacy, built on dedication, generosity, and community spirit, will endure for years to come.
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