Australian Venue Co. has continued its investment into the Victorian market with the proposed acquisition of the business leasehold of the Apollo Bay Hotel in Apollo Bay, Victoria. The group has entered into an exclusivity agreement with the freehold acquirer, and settlement is expected in the coming months. This is the group’s first acquisition on the Great Ocean Road.

There are no immediate changes planned for the venue. Australian Venue Co will offer continued employment to the existing, highly successful and passionate team at Apollo Bay Hotel.

The historic, beachside venue has served the community since 1885, and offers customers a family-friendly bistro, al fresco dining on a large veranda, accommodation and a function room.

Paul Waterson, Australian Venue Co CEO, said the acquisition was an exciting addition to the group’s strong Victorian portfolio.

“Apollo Bay is an iconic Victorian destination, and the Apollo Bay Hotel is a historic local landmark. We’re very excited to be part of the pub’s next chapter and to work with the team.”

“We have a strong track record operating pubs in regional areas and in popular holiday destinations and look forward to joining the community in Apollo Bay.”

This is the group’s second Victorian acquisition in 2022, following the acquisition of Anglers Tavern in Maribyrnong earlier this year. Australian Venue Co operates several regional Victorian venues, including Hotham Hotel on Mt Hotham, Birallee Tavern in Wodonga, and two venues in Yarrawonga, the Terminus Hotel and the Criterion Hotel.

AVC prides itself on its portfolio of more than 180 unique and individual venues across Australia. The group’s approach is to encourage local leadership and to tailor venues to local community tastes, supported by the group’s centralised support office which includes functions such as HR, finance and marketing.

The freehold and business interest of the Apollo Bay Hotel was recently marketed and sold by Will Connolly of JLL Hotels.

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