Ocean Grove pub celebrates decade of service

A BELOVED hospitality venue in Ocean Grove has celebrated a decade of service under its present licensees, and has raised thousands for charity at the same time.

Ocean Grove Hotel owner and general manager Andy McDonough said the past 10 years operating the local establishment certainly had its challenges, but he was thankful for the warm embrace the Ocean Grove community has shown he and his family.

“It was a great night to spend time with the business’ supporters and celebrate the 10 years,” Mr McDonough said.

“Some of our regular customers along with our suppliers who we do business with were all able to come along making the night even better.

“And perhaps the best part was raising over $3,000 through a raffle for the One Kind Charity, which really put a stamp on the event.

“We’re looking forward to what comes next over the next 10 years, and we’re excited to find out how we can continue to grow this business for the benefit of Ocean Grove.

To celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Andy and his wife Petti purchasing the license of the Ocean Grove Hotel, the business threw a celebration in honour of the occasion.

As part of the event, all proceeds from ticket sales on December 8 went towards the One Kind Charity to contribute to ongoing work in Cambodia, a charity Ms McDonough runs in addition to the hotel.

“My children have grown up in Ocean Grove, so they’re probably more local than me, particularly at my age moving down to Ocean Grove from Melbourne,” Mr McDonough said jokingly.

“But Ocean Grove has made my family and I feel at home, and while there has certainly been challenges over the past few years, the community has remained really supportive of the business and I’m extremely grateful for that.”