Tumbulgum Tavern changes hands

THE ownership of the historic Tumbulgum Tavern is set to change hands, with the Sydney-based group Epochal Hotels announcing its purchase of the riverside pub.

Long considered by loyal patrons to be the beating heart of the Northern Rivers, Epochal plans to undertake nuanced enhancements with a focus on elevating service, refining the offering, and creating experiences to reflect the character of the town and the broader region, the company stated.

“We want to build on what locals already love, while inspiring visitors from further afield to discover why the tavern means so much to this community,” Epochal Hotels CEO, Glenn Piper, said.

“When a close friend first flagged it was on the market, I was immediately drawn to it.

“The Northern Rivers is a region I already feel connected to – my family and I spend time here every year after beach volleyball tournaments in Coolangatta – so to now play a role in shaping the future of this pub is a great honour.”

In a joint venture with Northern Rivers investor and co-director William Nicholson, the pair assembled a syndicate of local backers to ensure the venue’s future.

Nicholson said the tavern had always been a community anchor.

“By joining forces with Glenn and the Epochal team, we’re ensuring that it not only continues to thrive, but evolves in a way that honours its roots while looking to the future,” he said.

The Tumbulgum Tavern will join Epochal’s expanding portfolio of landmark pubs, including The Beach Hotel in Merewether, Newcastle and The Harbord Hotel in Freshwater in Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

“The Tumbulgum Tavern is one of those rare pubs that seems to hold a thousand stories within its walls.

“Its history, its architecture, its riverfront location – it’s all incredibly special.”

The property purchase is expected to settle later in the year.