Mission Beach Historic Pub and Winery Tours launches operations

A new business which combines beer with history and 20th century architecture is offering locals and visitors a new way to explore the region.

A NEW business which combines beer with history and 20th century architecture is offering locals and visitors a new way to explore the Cassowary Coast.

Former architect and local government worker Edward Holland launched Mission Beach Historic Pub and Winery Tours this week – catering for those interested in the history of old Queenslander pubs in the region, or to the “younger crowd,” simply keen on a pub crawl.

“I used to work overseas designing and developing resorts and I was always interested in how the built environment is influenced and tells the story of the community,” Mr Holland said.

“And there are some great stories here with the cane cutting communities like Silkwood, South Johnstone, the Currajah at Wangan and Mourilyan.

“These were all bustling hubs during the time of cane cutting gangs and since the introduction of machinery, they’re all sort of frozen in time.”

A self-confessed history buff, Mr Holland said he armed himself with the knowledge of the region’s pubs thanks to “walking knowledge” and library books.

“It’s quite a young history.”

With a number of tour options to suit individuals, Mr Holland’s first stop is at the Murdering Point Winery, before embarking on the “Canecutter Way” from Silkwood to Mourilyan, passing rural communities, vast sugarcane fields and fruit orchards, and into historic towns.

Built in the 1930s, the character-filled Silkwood Hotel.

“We have a lot of caravan parks, and those are people who are wanting to see the region. So I think it’s a great way to explore our area, have a drink and learn more about each place you visit.

“The focus is to be fun tour and an opportunity to meet other people.”

Each tour runs for about four and a half hours, with public tours running every Thursday and private tours available every other day.

Mr Holland said groups could also book his services for a customised pub crawl.

For more information visit the businesses Facebook page or email [e-mail]

Originally published as Mission Beach Historic Pub and Winery Tours launches operations