Revealed: What is happening to two of region’s favourite pubs

Both country pubs have stood the test of time and while slight changes may occur the character and charm will remain the same.

CHARACTER AND CHARM: Passionate about investing in regional Queensland, Australian Venue Co. (AVC) has taken over the lease of two of Roma's favourite pubs.

Two of the region’s beloved town pubs have been acquired by an Australian beverage-led hospitality group.

Passionate about investing in regional Queensland, the people behind Australian Venue Co. (AVC) have now taken over the lease of two of Roma’s favourite pubs – The Commonwealth Hotel and the White Bull Tavern.

AVC chief operating officer (COO) Craig Ellison who is originally from Toowoomba said it was an exciting time for regional Queensland.

“We see Queensland as a real growing market, there have been less restrictions here than any other state and the Queensland Government are right behind supporting the pub scene,” Mr Ellison said.

“I’ve obviously got a real soft spot for the Toowoomba region but regional towns like Roma have such great, solid businesses and the local community is so supportive so we thought it was an excellent opportunity to invest.”

REGIONAL INVESTMENT: Australian Venue Co (AVC) has taken over the lease of two of Roma’s favourite pubs – The Commonwealth Hotel (pictured) and White Bull Tavern.

The COO said the Aussie pubs are the heart of the local community and in order to maintain its character and charm, patrons can expect to see only minor changes.

“Both pubs have been around for the true test of time and we saw them as being good community pubs that are really immersed in with the community,” Mr Ellison said.

“We will probably spend a bit of money on new carpet and give them a fresh paint job but other than that nothing much will change … the same great people will run them and we’ll be serving cold beer and fresh food.

“The big thing for us is to keep the money in Roma so we will be using all the local trades and sourcing ingredients locally too … the person we buy our bread from will be having a beer at the bar – they are our customers and we want to support them.”

AUSSIE PUB: Australian Venue Co (AVC) has taken over the lease of two of Roma’s favourite pubs – The Commonwealth Hotel and White Bull Tavern (pictured).

AVC chief executive officer Paul Waterson said both pubs were welcome additions to its portfolio containing more than 160 unique venues across Australia and New Zealand.

“Australian Venue Co. is investing significantly in the Queensland market and that includes acquiring the operations of regional venues,” Mr Waterson said.

“We are proud to be taking over such fantastic pubs in the town of Roma, which is the main hub for the surrounding country areas and we are looking forward to working with the local teams.

“AVC prioritises building great pubs for communities and investing in the Commonwealth Hotel and White Bull Tavern is another testament to that.”

Menu favourites at The Commonwealth Hotel include Guinness beef pie, barbecue pork ribs and Alice Spring chicken while pizza and pasta are popular choices at White Bull Tavern.

Weekly promotions will also continue.

The Commonwealth Hotel is at 75 Wyndham St and the White Bull Tavern is at 43 Station St.

AVC plans to continue investing in areas like Toowoomba, North and Central Queensland.