BIG changes are afoot following the acquisition of the Airlie Beach Hotel by new owners.
Australian Venue Co (AVC) acquired the leasehold of the hotel, on September 2, 2024.
As part of the agreement, the existing hotel team will continue to operate the venue, alongside Australian Venue Co.
“We can confirm that Australian Venue Co. has acquired the leasehold of the Airlie Beach Hotel,” a statement said.
The statement was issued on behalf of AVC and the hotel owners of the past six years, Mick and Bonnie McFie.
“Publicans Mick and Bonnie McFie are confident in what this means for their local community,” the statement continued.
The building adjoining the Airlie Beach Hotel, which previously housed the Fish D’Vine restaurant, is being revitalised and the hotel’s sports bar will be extended into this space.
“Expanding our offering and capacity ensures the pub can continue to be a spot for our community and visitors to enjoy for years to come,” a spokesperson said.
“This partnership reflects the changing perception of Airlie Beach, from a small tourist town to a thriving regional location.
“We thank the Airlie community and our customers, from around Australia and the globe, for helping make Airlie Beach Hotel one of the best pubs in Australia.”
Australian Venue Co’s CEO Paul Waterson said the hotel was ‘engrained within the local community’.
“The minute you walk into the Airlie Beach Hotel, you can tell that it’s a really special pub,” he said.
“The team have done an outstanding job creating a venue that is engrained within the localcommunity but also has strong tourism appeal.
“We look forward to working with the existing team, who will stay on and continue to operate the pub and hotel.”
Australian Venue Co, also owns and operates the Reef Gateway Hotel, Cannonvale, and the Jubilee Tavern, Jubilee Pocket.
