The historic and extensively restored Linville Hotel in Queensland’s Somerset Region is for sale by private owners, who have set it on a path to country legend.
Established in 1904, the pub is on a prominent site on main drag George Street, through Linville, roughly two hours from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and Toowoomba.
Evan and Tanya Grimward, along with Tayna’s sister Tracey Diver and her partner Cathal Diver, have familial ties to the region going back five generations. They acquired the well-worn pub in early 2022 for $1.15 million.
Under the operation of a dedicated family it has seen significant investment in infrastructure and marketing, bringing transformation to enhance its facilities, improve operations and embrace the community.
Key upgrades have been installed to enhance efficiency and the guest experience, including an online booking system and expanded food and beverage offerings, with seasonal menus and a curated wine list.
Further improvements include a commercial wastewater system to increase capacity, and bike-friendly amenities, to capitalise on its proximity to Australia’s longest rail trail, the roughly 161-kilometres Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT).
Aiming to be a destination for local, interstate, and international visitors, the owners secured key hospitality accreditations, such as getting in the Best of Brisbane Region Experiences (BoBRE) program, Top 10 in Tiny Tourism Towns in Australia (2022, 2023), a feature in the 2024 Country Pub Camping Calendar, and a finalist for Best Pub Stay in the 2024 Grey Nomads Awards.
Fostering a reputation as an event destination, the Hotel has hosted Pig Races fundraising for Variety Bash, St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Celebrations, Toyota Show & Shine Weekend, and local corporate Christmas functions.
Sales literature notes several areas that could see further development, including increased kitchen and cold storage facilities for greater service capacity, an undercover deck with stage and seating, expanded accommodation facilities, and the potential for bottleshop licensing.
The sale of the Hotel also includes an on-site house, which could provide further capacity or be a suitable transition for new owners to live onsite.
Last year the family encountered “unforeseen circumstances” and had to make the reluctant decision to sell. After a brief off-market campaign they opted to move forward publicly, to find the right buyer.
The vendors have assembled a detailed document outlining the pub’s history and key information, and the opportunity available to a new owner. The couples have engaged Savills Australia’s Kath Brassington and Joe Ganim, who expect interest from first-time publicans and experienced investors and say the Linville is “well-positioned” for future expansion.
“With its strong community ties and ongoing tourism growth, this asset is poised for long-term success under new ownership,” offers Brassington.
“With Queensland’s tourism industry expected to grow in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic Games, the Linville Hotel presents a fantastic investment opportunity,” adds Ganim.
The freehold going concern of the Linville Hotel is being offered for sale by way of Private Treaty.
