Knox’s Irish pub will stay open until early next year

When news broke one of the most popular pubs in Melbourne’s outer east was closing more than 1000 devastated patrons flooded in for last drinks. The response was so huge its owners have changed their plans.

Daniel Murphy and Jesse Claire outside the Irish pub. Picture: Stuart Milligan

Knox’s Seamus O’Toole Irish Pub will remain open at Knox Ozone until at least the new year, its owners shelving plans to close its doors next month after nearly two decades as one of the most popular venues in Melbourne’s outer eastern suburbs.

In a decision that will delight the bar’s patrons across Melbourne’s outer east, operators of the bar issued a statement confirming the venue had been given a reprieve.

“We’re very happy to continue serving a few more rounds to our loyal patrons,” the bar’s management said in the statement.

“The show of support over the last few weeks has been overwhelming and we have decided to stay for a while longer.

“So, it’s business as usual including our incredible Monday industry night along with other amazing nights.

“We hope to see you all over the coming days for a celebratory drink and a tasty Irish feed.”

The pub had been due to close in the next few weeks, a Westfield Knox spokeswoman confirming the news to the Knox Leader.

That was before more than 1000 people braved the cold for its final Monday night drinks this week, queuing for hours to get in.

Josh Hues from Pakenham and Tae Hampson from Narre Warren were among crowds who flocked to the pub on Monday night. Picture: Stuart Milligan

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Partygoers packed Knox Ozone, 27km east of Melbourne’s CBD, on Monday night for what was believed to be one of the last industry nights at the pub.

Commonly known as ‘The Irish’ or ‘The Rish’, the pub opened in 2002 as a feature of the new Knox Ozone precinct.