Last drinks called at Portarlington’s pub

PORTARLINGTON’S 133-year-old pub has shut its doors for seven months as the venue undergoes an $8 million dollar redevelopment.

The Grand Hotel stopped service last Sunday to ensure renovations will be completed by early to mid-November in time for the following summer season.

To celebrate last drinks, the hotel hosted a gathering of staff and members of the community.

Marketing manager Connie Trathen said the hotel’s legacy was honoured at the event.

“We were very excited to see a few past staff members, who used to work here back in the 60s and 70s, turned up for the event,” she said.

“Jimmy James, now 80 years old, worked here for nine years and recalled having a drink with Bob Hawke and swam with him here in Portarlington.

“Richard Newell recalled stories of discos on a Saturday night after dinner, where Bruce Melbourne was the DJ.

“They also said a local policeman, Doug Nisbet, used to come and play the piano at times for entertainment.”

The historic pub first made news when extensive plans were lodged last month by owners LG Marine Assets to restore the prominent main street structure to its original glory, as well as add additional features to facilitate more trade.

The application stated the proposal would support economic growth within the Bellarine Peninsula and increase business activity within the hotel.

Proposed plans include the construction of a replacement beer garden and outbuildings featuring a pizza kitchen, storage room and bathroom facilities.

Internal alterations to the ground floor bar, bistro and hotel reception area will support the additional customers anticipated in the new plans, including an extra 132 patrons across the four restaurant service areas and an additional six hotel rooms.

A statement from the Grand Hotel said the venue had shut in order to commence the “magnificent renovation”.

“Significant work has already been achieved on the project in the form of planning and design, and now the real works begin,” it reads.

“The vision is to bring the grand lady back to life, as a destination venue, as it was intended some 133 years ago.

“The designs have been carefully considered to ensure they strengthen the heritage character of the hotel, whilst providing a venue that will cater for the strong growth of residents and visitors to the Bellarine Peninsula.”

The hotel, which dates back to 1888, is protected by the City of Greater Geelong’s Heritage Overlay and remains a distinctive feature to the town’s shopping precinct.

Under the redevelopment, restoration will commence on the three-level balcony to restore the original architectural character of the hotel.

“The focus on good old-fashioned quality service will always remain for the locals and regulars who will remain a part of our family, and the updated venue will enhance the experience for tourists and visitors well into the future,” the statement said.

Ms Trathen said the team was looking forward to employing up to 80 people once the hotel reopens in November.
Updates will be available to subscribers of the Grand Hotel.

To stay up-to-date head to grandhotelportarlington.com.au/contact.