By Jacqui Bialocki
Red Gum BBQ managing director and co-founder Melissa Goffin has always believed food is a powerful connector – to place, to people, and to purpose – weaving her Southern US heritage, strong ethical values and deep commitment to community into a business that gives back to the Mornington Peninsula in meaningful, measurable ways.
Red Gum BBQ was born in 2016 from Melissa’s passion for Southern-style barbecue and a desire to share the food she grew up with, the kind of food that sparks conversation, debate, and connection around the table. What began as a love letter to her roots has grown into one of the Peninsula’s most loved hospitality destinations, but she has never defined success by popularity alone.
With her husband and pitmaster Martin, Melissa leads Red Gum BBQ with a clear vision: to run a business that is kind, generous and responsible. This ethos saw Red Gum become Australia’s first B Corp-certified restaurant, an achievement that reflects its commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing and community impact. From exclusively using free-range meats to recyclable materials throughout the business, every decision is made with people and planet in mind.
Supporting our producers is central to Melissa’s philosophy. Red Gum BBQ proudly showcases Peninsula wines and beverages, believing it is essential to invest in businesses “in our own back yard”. Martin collaborates closely with our farmers and butchers to source the best cuts, uses native wood for smoking, and refines sauces and sides that have become signature favourites. It’s a slow, considered process rooted in respect for craft, community and quality.
Beyond the plate, Melissa’s dedication to giving back is felt across the Peninsula. Each November the business donates $1 from every meat sale as a gesture of gratitude to the community that supports it. In December, its Helping Hams (& Turkeys) initiative sees one ham or turkey paid forward for every one sold, ensuring families doing it tough can still gather around a festive meal.
Chairing Women in Business Mornington Peninsula, Melissa is a passionate advocate for collaboration, inclusion and positive change. “With other women in our business community, we can amplify the impact of our businesses to create a better Peninsula and indeed a better world,” she said. The organisation champions action and advocacy, viewing our businesses not just as services but as engaged and responsible citizens committed to long-term prosperity and sustainability.
Melissa extends this same care to her staff, emphasising mentoring and development, creating a supportive workplace where people can grow in hospitality careers.
A message on the Red Gum BBQ wall says it all: ‘BBQ tastes better when shared with friends and family. Great food comes from farmers who care. Be kind. Be true. Be awesome.’ For Melissa Goffin, these are not just words; they are the guiding principles behind a business that continues to nourish the Mornington Peninsula one meal and one act of generosity at a time.
Learn more at redgumbbq.com.au
