A Sunshine Coast hotel is being revamped and rebranded as the first-ever flagship venue of a popular brewing company.
The Waterfront Hotel in Diddillibah will become known as Northern Grounds, a nod to its partnership with beer brand Great Northern.
The venue, a joint venture by hospitality industry giants Asahi Beverages, ALH Hotels and Endeavour Group, is being transformed following a $5.1 million investment.
ALH Hotels general manager Paul Carew said Northern Grounds represented a significant investment, reflecting Great Northern’s popularity among Queenslanders.
“We’re extremely excited to be opening the doors to Northern Grounds, the latest ALH venue in Queensland and a unique new offering for the region,” he said.
“We’re not just opening a pub, we’re creating a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Queensland: mateship, simplicity and that deep connection to our incredible outdoors.
“Northern Grounds is our commitment to giving locals, day trippers and holidaymakers a unique place to connect, relax and enjoy the best of Queensland hospitality.”
Following 15 years without renovation, the space has been revamped by Cayas and Ward Architects and builders Herron Coorey.
The wraparound balcony, offering waterfront views, has been retained and enhanced with an outdoor fireplace and a dedicated children’s play area.
A media release said the Northern Grounds makeover had been inspired by the spirit of a Queensland camping trip. It features firepits surrounded by communal seating and classic Queensland iconography including a map marked with punters’ favourite camping, fishing and hiking destinations.
“It’s everything you love about your local pub, reimagined for the outdoors: think coal-cooked meals, flowing beers and a laid-back vibe set against the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast,” it said.
“A menu highlight will be meat and seafood with flavours inspired by campfire cooking, featuring beef sourced from Queensland and seafood straight from the boats at Mooloolah River Fisheries. The venue will also serve pub classics and generous share plates, all crafted using fresh, seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers.
“On tap at Northern Grounds, patrons can enjoy the full range of Great Northern brews, alongside a selection of classic, contemporary and craft beers including fellow Queensland icons Balter and Green Beacon, and the popular Hard Rated.”
Northern Grounds will also feature an event space, The Lodge, which will be open for bookings in coming weeks.
Asahi Beverages chief commercial officer Nigel Parsons said the venue had been designed to capture the spirit of the laid-back, communal and nature-inspired elements of the Australian camping experience.
“Great Northern is Australia’s most popular beer brand and what better place for us to launch this concept than in its home state, Queensland,” he said.
“We wanted to create a space where people can connect with the brand in a more tangible way. The pub will embody the spirit of Great Northern – no fuss, warm and welcoming, and the perfect place to catch up with mates or take the family.”
ALH Hotels employs more than 15,000 people across Australia at more than 350 licensed venues, while Endeavour Group has more than 28,000 team members across brands including Dan Murphy’s and BWS, as well as the nation’s largest portfolio of hotels.
Northern Grounds will open to the public on Friday, August 15.
