Falcon Hotel Motel in Kanyapella to close doors after a century

A beloved country pub in the small community of Kanyapella is closing its doors after a century of serving patrons from near and far.

The Falcon Hotel Motel in Kanyapella is closing its doors after more than 100 years.

An iconic Murray River pub, beloved by those in the Echuca Moama region, is set to close its doors more than a century after it opened.

The Falcon Hotel Motel in Kanyapella will officially close on June 1, it was announced on social media.

Brothers John and Brendan Finn, with their mother Dorothy and Brendan’s wife Michelle, who took over the pub in March 2021.

“This decision has not been easy, and we are very sad that we must close,” the Facebook post read.

“We took over The Falcon four years ago, full of hope and determination to continue The Falcon legacy.

“However, despite our best efforts, the challenges we’ve faced – including the impacts of early essential repairs and maintenance, Covid-19, the floods, staff shortages, the rising cost-of-living pressures and unforeseen compliance costs – all have finally made it too hard to stay open.”

The Falcon Hotel Motel is home to many memories for people from locals heading in for a beer and catch up to family reunions and parties.

From steak and parma nights to well-known open mic nights, the owners said the venue was more than just a pub.

“It’s been a gathering place, a community hub, and a spot where countless memories were made.

“We know it will be missed by many.”

Support came pouring in from followers, sharing memories and wishing the family all the best for the future.

“End of an era. Great Aussie pub and great food,” one comment read.

“That’s sad news indeed. The Falcon Hotel holds fond memories from a time now passed. That was our local hangout for 26 years,” shared another.

One commenter wrote the family had done a “fantastic job” of running the pub.

“Wishing you all the best. Good memories of our family reunions held there over the past few years,” she said.