One of the Sunshine Coast’s premier waterfront dining and event venues is set to close following negotiations with its landlord, with just a few weeks to prepare for its exit.
The leaseholders of Pier 33 Mooloolaba will step away from the business, with new operators taking over from July 1.
A statement from Pier 33 said the location would continue under a new name, with all existing wedding and event bookings, along with vouchers, to be honoured by the incoming owners, who are yet to be announced.
Pier 33 Mooloolaba director Clayton Williams said the decision not to extend the lease followed a proposed initial rental increase from the venue’s landlord, the Mooloolaba Marina.
He said while negotiations did continue, a final offer from the Mooloolaba Marina was still not commercially viable.
“It’s a really disappointing outcome for us,” he said.
“Since taking over the venue in April 2024, we invested a significant amount of money to maintain the business, as well as undertake upgrades and improvements including the outdoor dining experience, weather shades, internal and external furniture, kitchen upgrades and soundproofing.”
A spokesperson on behalf of the Mooloolaba Marina board told SCN lease negotiations were conducted on a “commercially confidential basis”.
“While Mooloolaba Marina disputes the percentage increase alleged by Mr Williams [not published here due to confidentiality], it regrets that a mutually acceptable commercial agreement could not be reached,” they said.
“As a result, Helliwell Hospitality has elected to conclude its tenancy upon expiry of the lease on 29 June 2026.
“The Marina is in the process of finalising a lease with a new tenant and look forward to announcing the new entity in the coming days.”
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Mr Williams said they also assumed approximately $450,000 in outstanding debts and staff entitlements left by the previous operators.
“We chose to heavily invest into Pier 33 because we believed in its future and in the future of the Mooloolaba Marina precinct,” he said.
“We worked incredibly hard to restore confidence in the venue while also honouring past commitments to staff and suppliers and creating an entertainment venue the community could be proud of.”
Mr Williams said Pier 33 would vacate the venue on 29 June and all future enquiries should be directed to the following email: events@marinamooloolaba.au
