09/09/2026
A post from Ryan & Nikki
There are some people you meet in business who very quickly become so much more than business contacts.
When Ryan and I took over the Illawarra Hotel in 2019, Tim Fares was a constant for us.
He was always checking in. Always connecting the dots. Always making sure we were in the right places, with the right people. And, more importantly, he was always one of our biggest cheerleaders.
Tim has backed us, encouraged us and supported us throughout our journey at the Illawarra Hotel, and we will always be incredibly grateful for that.
Tim’s beautiful wife, Emma is currently in hospital receiving palliative care in the final stages of her battle with glioblastoma. Emma is a much-loved wife to Tim and, above everything, an incredible mum to their three boys, Max, Abel and Isiah.
As anyone who knows Tim and Emma will understand, their family is everything to them.
There are no words that can make a situation like this easier. But as a community, we can make sure that Tim and the boys don't have to carry every burden alone.
We are asking our Illa family to get behind this beautiful family in whatever way you can. Whether that's a donation, sharing their story, or simply keeping Emma, Tim and the boys in your thoughts. Every little bit of support matters.
Tim has spent years looking out for people, connecting people and cheering people on.
Now it's our turn to do the same for Tim.
If you are able to help, please consider donating to Emma's GoFundMe and sharing it with your family and friends.
Sending all our love and strength to Emma, Tim, Max, Abel and Isiah.
Ryan & Nikki
The Illawarra Hotel