Savvy couple breathe new life into iconic Wondai Hotel

Two hospitality veterans have restored the historic Wondai pub, blending tradition with innovation to preserve heritage but with a modern twist.

Two hospitality veterans have restored the historic Wondai landmark, blending tradition with innovation, as the iconic hotel reopens its doors with a modern twist.

A savvy couple with more than three decades of hospitality experience have tackled the mammoth task of restoring and reopening an iconic 123-year-old South Burnett landmark.

The Wondai Hotel has been transformed by Julie and Philip Wagner, who have dedicated the past 18 months to restoring what once was the town’s favourite watering hole.

Retired Mrs Wagner said she and her husband had owned five restaurants over south east Queensland and instantly fell in love with the history and character of the Wondai Hotel at their first viewing in 2022.

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“At our age we should be tired but it’s such a beautiful old building and we didn’t want to see it fall into disarray,” Mrs Wagner said.

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“As it is so old we have spent one year replacing and restoring almost all of the old Queenslander.”

The couple replaced the old flooring with new timber and carpets that pay homage to the original design.

“We have repainted everything, ripped out the old kitchen and have sanded for what feels like forever,” Mrs Wagner said.

“We have kept with the original style, we wanted to pay respect to the pub as it was.

“It has all been absolutely worth it,” she said.

The Wondai Hotel reopened on Friday, June 16 with an improved sophisticated menu, while staying true to the well loved pub grub.

The Wondai Hotel reopened on Friday, June 16 with an improved sophisticated menu, while staying true to the beloved pub grub.

“The menu will be ever changing, we love to do tasting plates, pizza, antipasto platters, tasting plates, and of course the schnitties,” Mrs Wagner said.

“We will be taking notes of what people enjoy; when we first opened it was mayhem.

“We have so much we want to continue renovating including the garden, outdoor seating and a function area for special events like weddings and parties,” she said.

Mrs Wagner said she wanted guests to feel comfortable in the hotel and enjoy the warm and homely feel of the building.

The Wondai Hotel is onboarding new staff to help make the country Queensland pub a beautiful reality.