Whitsundays’ Banjo’s Bar and Bistro announces closure

A beloved Whitsunday ‘classic’ pub has announced it would close down in a bombshell message to its regulars, as locals shared their memories one last time.

Banjo's Bar and Bistro has announced it would clsoe down on May 17, 2024. Picture: Facebook

A beloved Whitsundays ‘classic’ pub has announced it would close down in a bombshell message to its regulars, as locals shared their memories one last time.

Banjo’s Bar and Grill is about to close down in Cannonvale after more than 10 years of loyal service to locals and visitors alike.

Current owner Samantha Parkhill had registered the restaurant in October 2018, but Banjo’s was already in existence as early as 2014, when previous owner Jason Paul Cutler registered it.

Facebook posts shared by the pub go back as early as 2011.

The bombshell message came through a Facebook post posted by a member of community that saw a sign outside the bar, announcing it would close down in less than two weeks.

Banjo's Bar and Bistro has announced it would close down on May 17, 2024. Picture: Facebook

“We’re sorry to say Banjo’s is closing down on Friday May 17,” the message read.

“A huge thank you to our locals for your support over the years.”

Banjo's Bar and Bistro sold for $510,000. Picture: CoreLogic

Residents shared their surprise at the news, and for a lot of them their sadness seeing a bar they had so many memories at go.

“If only those walls could talk,” Evan Douglas commented on the post.

“So many good times for so many generations that came through.”

While some community members wondered whether there was any way for them to help, others were already planning their last meal at the venue.

“So sad! We should book a dinner date before they close up,” Kellie Louise commented while Renee Clayworth concluded that “Airlie won’t be the same without Banjo’s”.