The Illawarra reopens with ‘traditional’ new look
One of the Illawarra’s oldest pubs has reopened after major renovations, today revealing a traditional new look.
Illawarra Star
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As the NSW Government winds back restrictions on trading for pubs and clubs today, one Wollongong venue has reopened its doors with a fresh, new look.
The Illawarra’s first beer was poured after a months-long closure for renovations this morning, with the pub debuting it’s “traditional” new interior.
Publican Ryan Aitchison and his wife Nikki, who between them have more than 30 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, have taken the hotel back to its roots, putting the focus squarely on community, family and food.
“This is one of the few independent pubs in the region and Nikki and I love that idea of old school engagement where the pub is a hub for the community to meet and where friends and family can relax and catch up over dinner or a drink,” Mr Aitchison said.
“Now, more than ever, people need a sense of community, a place where they can gather in small groups to reconnect and where better to that than in a safe, welcoming and inclusive venue.”
While Monday was a major step forward for all pubs and clubs in NSW, Mr Aitchison said for The Illawarra in particular, it was a “fresh start”.
“We are here for everyone in the community and we hope they’ll embrace the changes we’ve made and the atmosphere we hope to create,” he said.
To celebrate both the reopening of the hotel and its renewed focus on the broader Illawarra
community, Mr Aitchison poured the pub’s first beer for the community’s civic leader, Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery this morning.
“This hotel has long been a part of the Wollongong landscape but its emphasis on family, friends and food is perfect for a community seeking comfort and reconnection with others after the isolation of COVID-19,” the Lord Mayor said.
“It’s great to have a family-style hotel back in the centre of the city and to see businesses investing in Wollongong for current and future generations.
Post-renovations, The Illawarra has turned its emphasis away from clubbing and dance music to old fashioned pub ideals including casual dining at affordable prices.
To ensure all government guidelines are met, The Illawarra will complete a four-day soft opening before extending its hours from Friday.
From today until Thursday, 4 June, The Illawarra will operate from 11am to 3pm and bookings are essential. From Friday it will open from 11am until late.