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Kimberley Malcolm

General Manager – Member Experience & Compliance

Pubs, Pots, & Profits:

Driving Success for Regional Victorian Pubs

For publicans across regional Victoria, running a successful business requires more than passion, it demands practical knowledge, strong industry

by trusted industry partners, every session is geared toward outcomes that attendees can implement immediately.

FEATURE

BALANCING THE SPACE BETWEEN LOCALS AND TOURISTS:

THE MACEDON VILLAGE HOTEL

Just 45 minutes from Melbourne, the Macedon Village Hotel sits in-between city and country. It’s a pub where locals are put first but also attracts many visitors. The bar sings with Monday night members’ draws and Friday night Joker Poker, and weekends bring day-trippers and wine lovers from across Victoria.

Publican Sally Gebert says the trick to success in a peri-urban venue is understanding that you can’t be one or the other, you must be both. “We do a lot for the locals midweek,” she says. “We run community nights and fundraisers, members’ draws, Joker Poker, all the things that keep the local community connected to their pub.”

While three-quarters of their patrons are locals, the venue’s social media tells another story: a strong following from Melbourne, where the Macedon Village Hotel is increasingly seen as a must-stop destination for a day in the ranges.

A Pub With a View

The pub’s layout makes that dual appeal obvious the moment you walk in. Large windows frame uninterrupted views of Mount Macedon, something Sally says was a deliberate design choice when they redeveloped the site.

Building a Tech-Forward Pub

While the Macedon Village Hotel leans into community and place, it’s also unapologetically modern. “We’re very techno-heavy,” says Sally. “People want to work here because it’s fun.”

“From the tourism side, it’s the way we laid it out and put the windows in,” she explains. “No one else has the view we do, locals bring their family in to see the mountain, and tourists come up for that same reason,” Sally says.

That sense of place extends to the menu and the drinks list. The bar and restaurant champion Macedon’s local producers.

“We’ve got a huge amount of local wines and spirits,” Sally says. “We're lucky in the Macedon Ranges that there's lots to choose from so we can really showcase some of the cold-climate wines and gins that Macedon is known for, which locals are excited to drink and when tourists come up they want to drink local too.”

Relationships with producers are growing organically. Many approached the hotel after seeing its early success. “We want to work with them, and they want to be in our venue,” Sally says.

The team has invested heavily in systems that make work efficient and engaging, including bump screens in the bar for cocktails. It’s the kind of setup that makes hospitality jobs attractive again, especially to younger staff.

“For our young local kids,16 to 19 years old, this is their first hospitality job,” Sally says. “They love it because of the training, the nice people, the vibe and the community atmosphere we’ve got.”

That investment in people pays off in loyalty and service quality, key ingredients in peri-urban areas where word-of-mouth shapes reputation.

“We’ve been lucky,” she adds. “Because we’re new and well-set-up, we’ve been able to attract the best of the best and we’re busy enough to give them good hours.”

“No-Man’s-Land”

Running a hospitality business in the peri-urban fringe brings unique logistical headaches.

Macedon is regional but close enough to Melbourne to fall between categories that drive freight, supply and delivery costs.

“Transport is our biggest challenge,” Sally explains. “Some of our stock comes from Bendigo, it drives past us from Melbourne and then back to us again. It costs everyone money.”

Freight rates and delivery fees are often set for either metro or regional zones, Macedon sits awkwardly between the two. “Even getting furniture delivered, they charge a bomb because we’re not classed as Melbourne,” she says.

“We’re in that sort of no-man’s-zone.” It’s a microcosm of the broader structural challenge for peri-urban hospitality: close enough to benefit from metropolitan audiences but distant enough to miss out on metropolitan infrastructure.

Finding the Balance

For Sally, the future of peri-urban hospitality depends on how well publicans manage that dual identity, rooted in local loyalty and buoyed by visitor spend.

“You want to be in an area that has lots of tourists because they come and want to spend on experiences, and if you provide the right offering, it’s great for your business,” she says. “But your dayto-day has to be your locals so we want to do things specifically for them.”

“When you’re unsure about the accuracy of your figures, it doesn’t just stay at work. It follows you home.”

—

Jared Melvin, Customer Success Manager, Wirely

This sentiment is echoed by hotel executives of all sizes. Manual processes and spreadsheet-based workflows have traditionally played a major role in financial administration, but many operators are now questioning whether these approaches remain fit for purpose in an environment where compliance requirements continue to evolve and realtime decision-making is critical.

For some operators, reviewing internal financial processes has been driven by a desire to reduce pressure on senior teams and redirect energy back into venue leadership. At Shoalhaven ExServices Group, that review was centred on improving visibility and reducing administrative burden.

“We were spending a significant amount of time buried in spreadsheets. Improving visibility meant our team could focus more on supporting people and operations, rather than constantly reconciling numbers.”

— Sara Goodwin, Chief Financial Officer, Shoalhaven Ex-Services Group

Time is another recurring pressure point across the hotel sector. Financial administration often sits with a small

number of experienced staff, creating bottlenecks and increasing operational risk. When key people are tied up in manual reconciliation or error correction, it limits their ability to lead teams, mentor staff and plan strategically.

Hotels that have reviewed and modernised these workflows frequently report improved resilience and stronger leadership presence across the venue.

“Taking hours out of back-office reconciliation has allowed our leadership team to be more present with staff and focused on the business.”

— Mark Condi, CEO, Duxton Pubs

Beyond efficiency, this shift reflects a broader cultural change within hospitality. Time reclaimed from administration is time reinvested into people, training and guest experience. For many Victorian hotels, this balance is critical. Strong operational foundations allow teams to focus on what matters most: staff retention, service quality and maintaining the role hotels play as community hubs.

Perhaps the most significant trend shaping the future of hotel operations is where improvement and innovation are coming from. Increasingly, best practice is being driven by people with lived experience inside venues, including publicans, accountants and hospitality professionals who understand the day-to-day realities of cash handling, compliance and accountability.

Rather than theoretical models or generic frameworks, change is being shaped by practical insight and peer-to-peer learning. Operators are learning from each other, sharing what works and adopting systems and processes designed around real hospitality workflows.

“Across the industry, we’re seeing a real shift toward operators wanting more confidence and clarity in how their venues are run. The focus isn’t just efficiency anymore; it’s peace of mind.”

— Stu Taggart, CEO, Wirely

As Victorian hotels look ahead, the message from industry leaders is consistent. Strong governance, clear financial visibility and practical systems are no longer optional. They are foundational to resilience, sustainability and leadership confidence.

When those foundations are shaped by lived experience and shared learning, hotels are better positioned to protect margins, support their people and continue serving their communities well into the future.

MODERNISING TRADITION: THE RISING SUN HOTEL

In a suburb where pubs are stitched into the very fabric of life, the Rising Sun Hotel – or “the Riser,” as everyone calls it – has always stood proudly as one of Richmond’s great locals.

“The identity has been driven by locals and visitors to Richmond long before we were involved. Regarded as a traditional pub, with sport, beer and classic pub dishes being a feature,” says owner Guy Wells.

Richmond has long been a suburb defined by its pubs, from the Corner Hotel to the small family-run locals tucked into quiet streets. The Riser sits a little outside the main entertainment precinct of Swan and Church Streets, which, according to Guy, has helped preserve its approachable, authentic character. “The Riser has always been an approachable pub with a great front bar, and regular patrons. Obviously footy is a big part

of what makes Richmond what it is, and the Riser is no different with decorations and sports on screens reflecting that.”

RESPECTING HISTORY, OPENING UP THE SPACE

When Guy and his partners took over from the Reardon family, who had run the pub for nearly a quarter of a century, they understood the weight of tradition they were inheriting. “We were mindful to be cognisant of its history and identity, while trying to increase its appeal to the changing face of Richmond and what we saw as an underserviced pocket of Richmond and Burnley,” he says.

With the neighbourhood’s demographics shifting, more young families, professionals, and long-time locals living side by side, the new operators saw an opportunity to modernise the Riser without losing its soul.

“Trying to respect the history and heritage of the pub, we have maintained a focus on sports with TVs and a variety of vintage and new sporting paraphernalia around the walls,” he says.

The recent renovation stayed true to the venue’s character, retaining the beloved horseshoe-shaped bar while improving flow and function. “We removed the TAB facilities and opened up the front bar area into the former TAB space to allow for increased trading space,” Guy explains. “Increasing light and opening up the space included raising the front bar ceiling and reactivating covered windows to let more light into the building.” The result is a classic local with the polish and energy of a modern neighbourhood pub.

OLD-SCHOOL SOUL MEETS MODERN SENSIBILITY

For many operators, the challenge lies in bridging the gap between the traditional expectations of a pub - cold beer, footy on the screen, good banter - and the new demands of today’s audiences, who want quality food and family-friendly spaces.

But for Guy, it’s not a balancing act, it’s a natural evolution. “Old-school expectations don’t need to be contrasted with premium food and an elevated offering,” he says. “There’s nothing to say our locals and regular customers can’t enjoy quality food and beverage and be die-hard footy fans or love to sit at the bar and have a chat.”

He describes a venue that can host a young family midweek for a quick dinner, and the same parents back on the weekend with

friends to watch the game. “Having spaces that can cater to both experiences is integral. There is nothing more Melbourne than watching the footy at a pub, be that with mates or family - so we have tried to offer that with food and drinks that everyone can enjoy.”

A NEW GENERATION OF LOCALS

The Riser’s success has also come from understanding how younger generations are engaging with pubs. “Younger generations are definitely keen to frequent pubs,” Guy says. “Having spaces that cater to all demographics allows the younger generations to experience the venue both with family and with friends.”

For him, inclusivity is the key. “While previous generations and spaces were more focused on a single gender and demographic,

we have aimed to make the space more appealing to a broader audience including increased female patrons and a younger demographic,” he says.

Staffing also plays a key role. “Having key staff understand the demographic and creating an environment that younger generations want to frequent (and work at) is integral to staying relevant to that sector of the market.”

It’s working. “It has been amazing hearing friends, suppliers and industry participants commenting that their kids (young adults) love the Riser - even having dinner with the folks and then staying on as their mates arrive to enjoy the evening.” That intergenerational appeal is something Guy believes will underpin the future of pubs: “Making venues welcoming and safe to younger generations and people of all

genders and persuasions will further drive this patronage.”

MODERN CHALLENGES

Like most in the industry, Wells is realistic about the pressures facing pubs in inner Melbourne. “Pubs have been challenging operations for generations speaking to previous publicans and industry operators more and more challenges always appear,” he says. “The resilience and ingenuity of operators (and the sector) is what allows the industry to evolve.”

Staffing remains a constant challenge, as does the rising cost of doing business. “Cost pressures are ever present as customers and socio-economic challenges present, with relative ceilings on in-venue pricing,”

he says. “As a result, operators need to get more creative in providing both genuine experiences and quality service, but also looking at input costs.”

He worries that increasing compliance and administrative demands risk pulling publicans away from what they do best; connecting with customers. “The total scale of responsibilities and requirements to run a pub is becoming more all-encompassing, and probably something that is harder to do individually, which is taking publicans and owners away from the customer.”

LOOKING AHEAD

So what does the next decade look like for a place like the Rising Sun? For Guy, it’s about evolution, not revolution. “Inner-city pubs

compete more and more with smaller bars and restaurants, so having quality products, educated and capable staff and facilities that cater to your target clientele is going to be as important as ever,” he says.

He points to the need for innovation in everything from menu design to technology and energy efficiency. “With the cost base always increasing, we as operators need to work out how to grow the pie and increase trade as we face ongoing increases to the cost of business - rents, utilities, streaming services, insurance and taxes,” he says. “Innovation will play a key role, be that through efficiencies in operations, smart product selection and offering, or technological change.”

Still, he remains confident that the fundamentals of the pub will endure; people, place and community.

At the Rising Sun, that philosophy feels alive and well. It is a pub that respects its past but looks to the future, where Richmond’s stories still flow, one pot at a time.

INTRODUCING

LYF ON ELIZABETH MELBOURNE, NOT YOUR USUAL STAY CONNECTING LIKE MINDS, CREATING COMMUNITY.

The Ascott Limited, Australia has expanded its lyf brand in Victoria. A lodging trendsetter that challenges conventions and is known for vibrant social design and their community-driven ethos. Located a stone’s throw from the iconic Queen Victoria Market, lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne opened in December 2025. This 90-room property is at the centre of the everything quintessentially Melbourne, infusing this energy into every aspect of the guest experience.

Local culture, design, and neighbourhood partnerships are incorporated into this flexible accommodation offering. Perfect for curious, creative, and community-driven travellers who seek new experiences, flexible living, and meaningful connections.

From the communal kitchen named Bond to the social gym named Burn, there is a vibrancy in the property that reflects Melbourne’s creative spirit. Originally built in 1975 by the Young Women’s Christian Association, the property has a rich legacy of connection. The property has undergone a redevelopment led by DKO architects, preserving heritage while introducing elevated interiors and innovative design that focuses on encouraging playful energy and collaborative spaces.

Don’t worry if the experience seems overwhelming, there are ‘lyf guards’ on deck to ensure you’re comfortable and making the most of your stay. They are primed to help you curate lyf’s signature mix of guest rooms, social spaces, seasonal activations and ongoing programs. All day dining is available at ground floor restaurant, Bonnibel. It's nearly impossible to resist one of their signature stone baked pizzas. The perfect spot for people watching, Bonnibel stocks specialty coffee and local craft beers.

lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne is not only a hub for guests to connect and explore, but a fully functioning conference and events space that

can cater for anything from boardroom meetings to 250-person events. Reflecting the property’s diverse and distinct personality, you can take time in the peaceful internal courtyard or get into focus mode in the fully equipped business centre.

We were lucky enough to talk to lyf Champion and General Manager Matthew Ryan about what he’s loving most about lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne.

Tell us your favourite thing about lyf on Elizabeth?

Guests might walk into lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne expecting a typical hotel, but they quickly realise it’s something different - a vibrant community hub. The space naturally encourages interaction, from the buzz in the lobby to shared social areas where guests cook together in the Bond Kitchen, remoting work side by side in the Connect space, or even strike up a conversation while doing their laundry in Wash & Hang. There are so many moments throughout the hotel where these connections happen organically and seeing that sense of community come to life has been the most rewarding outcome of the renovation.

What are you most excited about when looking forward?

I love the idea that lyf isn’t just one destination in Australia - we’re a shared ecosystem. As we grow, guests won’t just be choosing a hotel in a city; they’ll be stepping into a community they already feel connected to. That sense of familiarity really matters, especially for longstay guests who move between countries or states for work or lifestyle. Each lyf property is uniquely local, but the lyf experience is instantly recognisable, making every city feel a little more like home.

Biggest challenge during pre-opening? Particularly when lyf Collingwood was a purpose-built new build.

The biggest challenge during pre-opening was bringing lyf’s design, tech, and brand standards into a heritage building, while honoring its original character. lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne had its own surprises, even compared to Collingwood. It took a lot of creative problemsolving and collaboration across teams, but the result is a property that celebrates both lyf and the heritage it lives within.

If you’re talking to someone that has never stayed at a lyf property before, curate a one-night stay highlighting the nonnegotiables.

After checking in in the afternoon with our friendly lyf Guards at Say Hi check-in desk, drop your bags in your room and get ready to explore. You can start by checking out lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne’s social spaces, if you’ve got a spot of work to finish off head to Connect space, our remote working and lounge area, where you can tap away on your laptop while watching other guests cook, chat, or hang out in Bond Kitchen. You might even strike up a conversation yourself.

After logging off, grab a cold brew during Bonnibel’s daily Happy Hour from 4pm-6pm, then step out into Melbourne’s CBD and make your way to Hardware Lane, just 10 minutes from the hotel - one of our must-visit spots. Famous for its wine bars, hidden laneway bars, and vibrant street art, it’s the perfect place to soak up the city’s energy and watch locals and tourists mingle. For dinner, you could keep it casual at Lulu’s Malaysian Hawker, or enjoy contemporary, Asian-inspired dishes at The George on Collins. Wrap up the evening with live entertainment at Murmur Piano Bar or some laughs at Basement Comedy Club – another one of our non-negotiables for a memorable night.

If you have the next morning free, don’t miss Queen Victoria Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce and local eats to Australian souvenirs, a perfect way to cap off your one-day visit to Melbourne.

Live boldy with lyf, learn more at Www.discoverasr.com/en/lyf/australia/lyf-on-elizabeth-melbourne lyf on Elizabeth Melbourne 489 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne 3000 03 9660 5408

SHADOW PLAY BY PEPPERS UNVEILS

EDEN

THE PERFECT SPACE FOR PREMIUM EVENTS WITH A VIEW

Shadow Play by Peppers has introduced Eden, located on Level 46 this reimagined space is Melbourne's newest premium event destination. Conveniently located in Southbank, this space has been transformed into an intimate, boutique and versatile space that is primed to host memorable moments and milestone occasions.

With panoramic views of the Melbourne CBD and beautifully finished interiors, this space is ready to be transformed into whatever you envisage it to be. The contemporary design of the room is a blank canvas to curate product launches, corporate celebrations, private dining experiences, weddings, and so much more.

Accommodating up to 120 guests standing or 60 guests seated, the space is ideal for both intimate gatherings and high-end showcases.

The room has a distinctly Melbourne feel, cool and edgy but comfortable and welcoming. A stay in one of Shadow Play by Pepper's signature penthouses after an event at Eden would make for an unforgettable experience. Sleek furniture and seamless design flow throughout the hotel.

Catering at Eden is led by Edwin Wine Bar & Cellar, offering bespoke options that include tailored canapés, multi-course dining and thoughtfully paired wines and cocktails. With a wine list that is exclusively Victorian, Eden goes the extra mile to showcase the strength and diversity of the state’s wine offering.

If your event is less about wining and dining, and more about the message you're trying to get across, rest assured that the latest technology and flexible configurations are available at Eden. A unique prospect, you're able to extend the experience across Eden's private, two-level precinct. Level 46 houses Eden and three additional event spaces, while Level 45 below offers five expansive three-bedroom penthouses. Levels 45 and 46 form a vertically integrated, exclusive environment that is unlike anything else in the local market.

We spoke with Nico Macintosh, Acting General Manager, to hear more about the future of Eden.

Talk to us about the vision for Eden. What events or activations are you most excited to see come to life?

From the very beginning, the vision for Eden was to create a space that feels special the moment you step into it — somewhere that captures the spirit of Melbourne and invites people to experience something a little unexpected.

We see Eden as a flexible, creative space that can host everything from intimate chefled dinners and degustation experiences to fashion moments, brand collaborations and beautifully tailored celebrations. What excites us most is the diversity of possibilities. One night it might be a long-table dinner overlooking the city, the next a cocktail

event or a product launch. We want Eden to be a place where ideas come to life and memorable moments are made.

It’s such a unique space and view of Melbourne — what are you most proud of when reflecting on the process to get it how it is today?

What I’m most proud of is how seamlessly Eden connects back to the Shadow Play by Peppers brand. From our branding through to the dark, boutique feel throughout the hotel, we have a strong design identity, and it was important that this flowed naturally into Eden.

We wanted the space to feel premium and elevated, while still offering its own sense of character — a continuation of the guest journey rather than something completely separate. The Melbourne skyline is, of course, breathtaking and special in its own right, but we were very intentional about ensuring the interiors could stand confidently

alongside that view. Seeing everything come together into a space that feels cohesive, thoughtful and memorable has been very rewarding.

The start of the year always has such a good vibe in Melbourne — what are your team loving talking to guests about?

Summer in Melbourne is always such an exciting time. With world-class events, school holidays and the city coming alive, there’s a real sense of energy that both guests and our team feed off.

The team are loving the conversations with guests at the moment because they’re always so positive and full of anticipation, whether it’s about what’s happening around the city, local hotspots, or what they have planned during their stay. Of course, we’re also sharing the excitement around the launch of Eden and the experiences we’re preparing to bring to life there. It’s a great time of year to connect with guests and help them make the

most of everything Melbourne has to offer. Do you have any hospitality trend predictions or things to watch in 2026?

Looking ahead across 2026, hospitality continues to move toward experienceled concepts that centre on people and shared moments. Guests are increasingly seeking experiences that feel considered and personal, from intimate gatherings and collaborative events to spaces that encourage interaction and a sense of belonging.

Human connection remains at the heart of hospitality. The places that resonate most are those that feel warm, intuitive and genuinely welcoming, where great design and clear concepts are matched by thoughtful service. These principles have helped shape the approach to Eden, a space designed to bring people together in meaningful and memorable ways.

To learn more about Eden and Shadow Play by Peppers, visit ALL.com Shadow Play by Peppers 308/320 City Rd, Southbank VIC 3000 (03) 7004 0400

HOW KENO SHONE IN 2025: WINS THAT LIT UP VICTORIAN HOTELS

The thrill of a Keno win doesn’t just change lives; it transforms hotels into celebration hubs. Last year, Victorian hotels saw unforgettable wins that brought communities together and reinforced the message: Together We Play. Heading into 2026, Keno is keeping the momentum going, looking to deliver more wins and more shared moments that make the atmosphere electric and keep patrons engaged for longer.

In 2025, Victorians enjoyed more than 10.3 million Keno wins worth more than $136 million.

The state’s biggest jackpot of the year landed at Hotel520 in Melbourne’s Tarneit when a regular patron bagged a staggering $1.3 million Keno Classic 10 Spot prize in July.

“I was sitting with two mates, and we noticed the Keno jackpot had gone off in the hotel,” the winner explained at the time.

“The team member came over to us and said, ‘You’ve won! You’ve won!’, and I just said to her, ‘What are you on about?! Surely not!’. I thought I had won $50 at first.

“Bang! The next thing I knew, everyone in the venue knew about the win. I couldn’t believe it. Things like this don’t happen to me!

“I ended up shouting the team member a drink. It was a great night. I’m the Keno man!”

Keno National Partnership Manager Luke Harrison says the win highlights how Keno is more than a game; it’s a catalyst for shared moments.

“Every win brings excitement to a hotel, creates a buzz, and reminds us why Together We Play,” he says.

“When a big win happens, it’s not just the player who celebrates. The whole hotel shares in that moment. It turns a single win into a shared story that everyone feels part of.

“It’s about the smiles, the cheers, and the sense of belonging that fills the room. That’s what makes Keno special.

“As we dive in 2026, we look forward to delivering more magic moments in Victorian hotels.”

Other memorable wins at Victorian hotels in 2025:

• Sandown Park Hotel: A Noble Park woman had the ultimate shopping spree after her Keno jackpot win of $114,000. “I only play Keno from time to time when I’m out with friends, so it was a big shock,” she laughed. “Recently, a special friend of mine shared a list of numbers with me that he thought were lucky. I just thought I’d give the numbers a go, but I didn’t expect to win anything.”

HOW VICTORIAN HOTELS CAN LEVERAGE KENO WINS

• Celebrate loudly: Announce wins in-venue and on social media to create buzz

• Share stories: Highlight winners’ experiences and ways of playing to inspire others

• Promote playing with friends and family, reminding patrons of Together We Play

• Empower your staff to help your winners celebrate (while protecting their privacy)

• Lakeview Bar and Bistro: A man from Loch Sport scored a $67,000 Keno prize while out with mates. “I was sitting with some friends, and we noticed on the Keno screen that someone from Lakeview Bar and Bistro had won a major Keno jackpot,” he said. “I turned to the boys, and I said, ‘Oh! Oh! That could be me! I think I might have that!’. The team member at the hotel scanned my ticket and confirmed the win. I rang my wife straight away and she thought I was pulling her leg.”

THE "PUBS WITH PURPOSE" INITIATIVE:

RETURNING IN 2026 FOR A LANDMARK YEAR OF GIVING WITH AHA (VIC) AND THE GOOD FRIDAY APPEAL

Victorian publicans once again demonstrated their powerful commitment to community and charity in 2025, collectively raising over $500,000 for the Good Friday Appeal (GFA) and The Royal Children's Hospital. This outstanding result was driven by the Australian Hotels Association (Vic)'s "Pubs with Purpose" campaign, which saw venues statewide organise diverse fundraising events and community activities to surpass their donation targets.

In 2025 alone, the Good Friday Appeal raised an extraordinary $23,822,792, directly supporting life changing outcomes for children and families. These funds are helping deliver state of the art equipment and technology, groundbreaking research, staff education and training and vital patient and family centred care at The Royal Children’s Hospital. In addition, $3 million was distributed to 41 regional paediatric health services across Victoria extending the RCH’s excellence into local communities and ensuring children can access worldclass care closer to home.

80 YEARS OF GENEROSITY

In 2026, the Good Friday Appeal will mark its 95th year, a milestone made possible by the generosity of the community, with pubs playing a special role throughout its history. This tradition dates back to 1946 when the first collection tin was placed on the counter of The George Hotel in South Melbourne. Soon after, the Tanti Hotel in Mornington followed suit, raising 28 pounds in their first collection.

The same spirit of generosity continues today. This year, we proudly celebrate 80 years since that first pub collection tin and fittingly The George Hotel will once again be raising the bar by hosting fundraising activities in the lead up to Good Friday as part of the Pubs with Purpose campaign. This incredible milestone is only possible because of the generosity and community spirit that sits at the heart of pubs across the state.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Through Pubs with Purpose, venues can create an online fundraising page, allowing customers and community members to donate directly and track the collective impact of their contributions. This initiative celebrates the rich history of pub-led philanthropy while ensuring all funds raised are captured in one place, reinforcing the industry’s dedication to supporting sick children and their families.

Registration is open to all Victorian pubs, regardless of size or location. Whether it’s hosting a fundraising event, placing a collection tin on the bar or rallying your local community, every pub has the power to make a difference this Good Friday.

Venues are encouraged to register online, set up a dedicated fundraising page under their pub’s name and share their story and fundraising activities with GFA and their community.

www.fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com.au/ register/pubswithpurpose/registration

REPUBLICA ST KILDA BEACH

1A-1D/10-18 JACKA BLVD, ST KILDA VIC 3182 (03) 8598 9055

Framed by palm trees and the sand of St Kilda Beach, Republica is an iconic bayside venue where Melbourne’s love of food, music, and seaside lounging all come together. With its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, it’s the kind of spot that works just as well for a sundrenched afternoon spritz as it does for a lingering dinner overlooking Port Phillip Bay. Open seven days a week, Republica serves everything from beachside breakfasts on weekends to casual lunches and laid-back dinners, all designed for sharing good times by the water.

There’s always something happening at Republica, with weekly food and drink special: think pizza nights, steak nights, and classic fish and chips, as well as regular live music that turns the beachfront into an open-air lounge. The venue’s prime position and flexible spaces also make it a natural choice for celebrations, from relaxed birthday gatherings to large-scale events with a St Kilda sunset as the backdrop. Effortlessly coastal and unmistakably Melbourne, Republica is a beachfront destination where any visit can feel like a mini holiday.

THE 1860 ROMSEY VICTORIA

119 MAIN ST, ROMSEY VIC 3434 (03) 4418 7601

Tucked away in the heart of Romsey, The 1860 blends country charm with modern sophistication, offering a welcoming space where history and hospitality meet. Originally established in 1860 and once known as The Romsey Hotel, this beautifully reimagined venue has been thoughtfully restored to celebrate its heritage while introducing a contemporary edge. Whether you’re after a cozy drink by the fire, a relaxed lunch with friends, or an elegant dinner showcasing local produce, The 1860 delivers a dining experience that feels both refined and familiar.

More than just a pub, The 1860 has become a true community hub, a place where locals and visitors alike can connect, share stories and make new memories. With its stylish interiors, curated drinks list and warm country service, it’s a shining example of how regional hospitality continues to evolve while honouring its roots. Step inside The 1860, and you’ll discover Romsey’s oldest yet newest gem, where every visit feels like coming home.