The new owner of a waterfront restaurant has distanced the venue from its founder’s financial woes and revealed more renovation plans.
Helliwell Hospitality, which took over Pier 33 in July, said the eatery was “trading very profitably” and upgrades continued.
The company that created the restaurant, Pier 33 Pty Ltd, went into administration in October.
But Helliwell Hospitality director Clayton Williams said that would not affect the venue, which is amid a $1 million revamp.
“There will be no impact on the operation of Pier 33 … none of the past owners are involved in the business,” he said.
“The venue is very secure.
“The owner, Helliwell Hospitality, has traded for over 30 years in hospitality, owning and operating many successful venues in South-East Queensland including award-winning venues Madam Wu, Chu The Phat and Beach House Bar & Grills (Brisbane), as well as Sunshine Coast venues Duporth Tavern, Commercial Hotel Nambour (and) 4 Pines Mooloolaba.”
Pier 33 is located on the Mooloolaba Spit, next to the Mooloolah River, and is renowned for its menu and setting.
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
Mr Williams detailed the upgrades that have been completed within the past five months.
“Since acquiring the business, Helliwell Hospitality has invested in significant improvements to Pier 33, which includes a $500,000 renovation to stage one including revamping the front awning, kitchen updates, sound proofing and installing one of the largest cellars on the Sunshine Coast.
“The venue is trading very profitably and is almost completely sold out for Christmas functions.”
He also outlined the next stages of works.
“Exciting new renovations are scheduled to occur in 2025, including a $500,000 upgrade of the upstairs area which, when completed, will host up to 350 people seated,” he said.
There are also plans to improve the venue’s outdoor area right beside the river.
Construction will start on The Balter Boat House Bar and Kitchen in February.
“Helliwell Hospitality is fully committed to defining the premium hospitality market on the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Williams said.
“Pier 33 is an iconic Sunshine Coast waterfront location.
“It’s a large space suitable for all types of functions and its new owner is fully committed to its long-term success.”
The venue was recently announced as a stopping point for the new Mooloolaba Ferry Service, which started operating earlier this month.
