The Woman Behind Bella
Kristine Young and husband Todd are the driving force behind Bella Venezia – one of the most highly-awarded (and delicious!) restaurants on the Sunshine Coast. Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers her mission to inspire other women in business, her passion for exceptional food and wine, and why she’s a proud advocate for our region.
Bella Venezia Mooloolaba has a well-deserved trophy cabinet full of awards – from global accolades for its wine list, state and national food awards, recognition as leaders in the industry, top ratings for diner’s choice, several Sunshine Coast Business Award wins – and now, recognition for one of the dynamic duo behind this delicious doyen of friendly service, fabulously-consistent food and wonderful wines. Kristine Young was awarded Champion in the Restaurant Category at the Australian Women’s Small Business Awards, and also received the highest honour of Champion Influential Woman.
Judged by an independent expert panel, the Restaurant category assessed various aspects of small business operations, including strategies, growth plans, financial performance, sustainability credentials, innovation, customer service quality, and community support; while Champion Influential Woman recognises the outstanding woman who has shown initiative and willingness to undertake business development and the courage to always persevere.
We couldn’t resist the opportunity to find out what inspires this inspirational woman:
Why is inspiring other women in business important to you?
It’s deeply important to me because I know first hand the dedication, resilience and sacrifices it takes to succeed, especially in a demanding industry. It’s incredibly fulfilling to show women that they, too, can create a meaningful impact in their field without compromising their values or wellbeing. I believe that by sharing my journey – including the challenges and triumphs – I can help other women feel empowered, confident and capable of overcoming any obstacles they may face.
What’s your leadership style?
My leadership style is approachable, adaptable and strategic, with a deep focus on collaboration. I take pride in recognising the unique strengths of each team member, maximising their capabilities so they feel empowered to excel. By creating an atmosphere where each person’s contributions are celebrated, we achieve our best work together.
What’s your philosophy for both business and life?
My passion aligns seamlessly with my purpose, creating a fulfilling balance in both business and life. Bella Venezia is more than a business; it’s a labour of love. My philosophy is simple yet powerful: when you love what you do, and you serve customers with exceptional hospitality and cuisine, you create an experience where they feel valued. This is our ultimate goal, and I hope the legacy of Bella Venezia will be one of cherished memories and unforgettable moments.
What drives you?
My passion for exceptional food and wine drives me every day. Todd and I are deeply committed to raising the bar for hospitality on the Sunshine Coast, aiming to create memorable dining experiences and set a high standard in our industry.
Bella Venezia has been an institution for more than 40 years – what’s the secret to its enduring success?
Our success lies in a continuous journey of growth, refinement and dedication to hospitality excellence. We believe in evolving and adapting, all while staying true to the timeless principles that make Bella Venezia an extraordinary dining experience.
How do you stop yourselves from resting on your laurels?
We’re incredibly grateful for the recognition and success our team has achieved, but we don’t see it as a stopping point. Every award is both an honour and a reminder of our commitment to keep evolving. For us, there is always room to elevate, refine and innovate; it’s what drives us to keep pushing for excellence.
Tell us about your book ‘The Self Preservation Guide,’ and why you were inspired to write it.
My book was born out of a desire to empower women to prioritise their wellbeing. It’s about giving women the tools to create healthy boundaries, which are vital for leading a happy, fulfilling life. I hope the book encourages readers to embrace their inner strength and live more balanced lives.
What are you most proud of?
Winning the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards for Restaurant and being recognised as an Influential Woman. These achievements are a testament to the hard work, resilience, and passion our team puts into making Bella Venezia a top dining experience. It’s rewarding to see my team’s efforts acknowledged on such a significant national stage.
You’re a passionate advocate for the Sunshine Coast – what do you love most about our region?
The Sunshine Coast is truly a regional powerhouse, rich with outstanding local produce, creative talent, and an unparalleled lifestyle. But what stands out most is the generosity of our community. There’s a unique spirit here – when anyone faces a challenge, people come together in remarkable ways. It’s a privilege to be part of such a supportive and vibrant community.
