After almost thirty years, Australian Leisure & Hospitality’s (ALH) Irish Finnegans in Townsville has received a multi-million-dollar renovation, including a name change and updated identity.
The pub, built in 1998, is now known as The Condo Hotel, to broaden its appeal to all Condon locals and visitors.
The rebranding became official in September following the completion of a major six-month renovation by ALH, which has a portfolio of more than 350 licensed venues across Australia.
ALH operations manager Jamie Robinson says that while the Irish theme was enjoyed by many, it still only catered to a niche market.
The evolution from a themed venue to a modern local hub means the hotel can easily welcome anyone.
“We have immense respect for the history of the venue, but our goal with this $2.5 million renovation was to ensure the pub truly reflects the community it serves today,” he said.
Pauline Reynolds, the Condo’s publican, said the renovation and rebrand have received plenty of positive feedback.
The pub now boasts an open plan layout, with the bistro and bar combined into one section thanks to the removal of a wall. Its gaming room is more spacious, and the pub now has a TAB. New furniture and more greenery are complemented by a new diverse menu offering share plates and elevated modern Australian pub classics, with a touch of Asian influence.
Reynolds says the new brand aims to be both a family-friendly and premium destination, with great food and drinks. Still on the horizon, shade sails will be added to the car park.
“We are proud to have transformed the venue into a world-class destination that celebrates the Condon suburb,” says Robinson.
The rebranding of Irish Finnegans follows a similar rebranding of Townsville hotel The Shamrock last year, when it changed to The Pub on Palmer.
