Owners breathe new life into beloved Boyne Valley pub

The new owners of an historic country pub have ‘grand’ plans for its future after starting the new year in style.

The beloved Grand Hotel Many Peaks reopened with a bang after a five-year closure, celebrating with a New Year’s Eve party and not long after, an Australia Day party.

The historic hotel was originally built in 1891 in Gladstone before being dismantled and transported to its current location where it first opened in 1909.

Over a century later, new owners Craig and Desley O’Grady can’t wait to see the historic watering hole back in action.

Craig and Desley O'Grady at the Grand Hotel in Many Peaks.

Owning the Grand Hotel has been a long-time dream for Desley.

The venue is conveniently located on Gladstone-Monto Road and backs onto the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail.

The reopening of the hotel marks a new beginning for the local community, and an exciting opportunity for visitors.

After retiring as a councillor on the Gladstone Regional Council, Desley and Craig O’Grady went on a caravan trip with their sights set on adventure.

A visit to Alice Springs connected them with an old friend and seasoned hotel licensee.

They had the idea to revive the Grand Hotel Many Peaks, with their friend agreeing to join the team as a head chef.

Craig said the community had been very supportive of the reopening and they were overwhelmed with offers of help from locals and friends.

“It’s heartwarming to see how much the Grand Hotel means to everyone,“ he said.

The Grand Hotel in Many Peaks.

Accommodation and pub camping will also be available.

“A pub is the social fabric of a community, and we’re proud to bring that back to Many Peaks,” Desley said.

Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Ltd CEO Nicola Smith said the hotel was “invaluable”.

“The reopening of The Grand Hotel Many Peaks is not just a win for the local community but also a fantastic drawcard for visitors from far and wide,” Ms Smith said.

“This historic venue enriches the Boyne Valley’s charm and character, offering a unique experience that complements the area’s attractions.

“Its connection to the popular Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail makes it an invaluable addition to the region, enhancing our tourism offering and creating even more reasons to explore the stunning Boyne Valley.”

Gladstone Regional Council Mayor Matt Burnett was supportive of the reopening.

“Desley and Craig have been huge advocates for the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail and the reopening of the Many Peaks Hotel provides another opportunity to encourage visitors to enjoy everything the Boyne Valley has to offer,” he said.

The hotel operates six days a week and closed on Tuesdays.

“Delicious meals will be served for lunch and dinner, with a limited menu during weekdays and a full menu from Friday through to Sunday,” Desley said.

She said favourites like pizza, chicken parmigiana, and traditional pub meals are on the menu, with future offerings shaped by feedback from locals, visitors and tourists.

Originally published as Owners breathe new life into beloved Boyne Valley pub