21-year lease for Wharf Shed to be advertised

ONE of Geelong’s longest running restaurants could soon enter a 21-year lease with the City of Greater Geelong council if there are no objections from the public.

Three Frothy Beers Pty Ltd, the tenant of Eastern Beach Road’s Wharf Shed eatery, is contracted to the venue until June 30, 2028.

Business partners Billy Brownless and Andrew Clark splashed an estimated $1.5 million into the restaurant’s recent revamp and asked the city for a more secure lease to ensure return on the costly renovations.

The city is now required to advertise its plan to enter a new 21-year lease with the tenant.

It is estimated the process will take a minimum of 28 days. If submissions are received during this time, a hearing in accordance with Section 190 of the Local Government Act may be needed.

Cr Bruce Harwood, deputy chair of the city’s central and civic portfolio, said it had been good to see the tenants breathe new life into the space.

“The two operators are well known Geelong figures who have worked hard at promoting our city on the hospitality scene.

“They’ve done an excellent job with their renovations, so we hope their venture will be successful and continue a great tradition on the waterfront.”

In November, the city advertised its intention to negotiate the new lease and received no submissions.

As the business is on Crown land, the potential new lease would need ministerial approval to go ahead.