Permit lodged for new container bar

AN ICONIC Torquay backpackers hostel has made big plans for the year following eight months of closure as a result of the global pandemic.

The Bells Beach Backpackers has made plans to add a shipping container bar to its Geelong Road premises which accommodates up to 40 people.

Owner Sean Kershaw submitted a planning application to the Surf Coast Shire under the Torquay Lodge Pty Ltd licensee. On the application Mr Kershaw said the on-site bar would be open between 2pm to 9pm, seven days a week, in compliance with the venue’s noise curfew.

Despite the backpackers bordering residential properties on the west and south boundaries, Mr Kershaw has ensured the bar would be located sensitively away from nearby houses and had been given the nod of approval from neighbours.

“We aren’t asking for anything extreme, my main purpose is COVID for us,” he said.

“It has been extremely tough on us.”

The application stated most backpackers now operate with an associated bar providing an opportunity for guests to enjoy a drink on the premises.

Court Jeremiah, social media manager for Bells Beach Backpackers, wrote on a local community Facebook page that hostels which have bars see a 78 per cent increase in guest bookings which would welcome more visitors to the area throughout the year.

“It is not now that we are concerned about it’s the winter, it is getting through the tough times ahead,” Mr Kershaw said.

Winter at the backpackers usually sees an influx of international visitors, however with restrictions on travel still in place, Mr Kershaw said he needs to ensure a second stream of income.

“I was against it at first because we didn’t have the money to throw at it but then I took a step back and thought we really need to do this as another revenue stream,” he said.

The courtyard currently features a shipping container used as storage for various surfboards and that inspired Mr Kershaw to think outside the box.

“By putting in this bar at least then we can control consumption of alcohol on site and by using containers it will act as noise barriers for our neighbours,” he said.

Talks of the bar began back in September with hopes of having the permit approved ahead of the peak season.

“It has been such a slow process from a business who needs extra revenue before winter,” Mr Kershaw said.

If approved, the bar will feature locally brewed alcohol as well a new coffee machine with coffee from local roasters and the potential to host RSA and Barista courses available to the public.

“This is our big thing, I am a big advocate for sticking to local,” he said.

“I have been offered commissions in the past but I don’t care about that, I just want good relationships.”

Council will decide the outcome of the application on February 4.