Rising costs and falling trade have taken their toll on another NSW regional pub and small business, bidding farewell to a traditional local of Grenfell, the Railway, after more than a century.
The town of Grenfell is around 370 kilometres west of Sydney, with a reported population of nearly 2k residents and the usual gambit of country pubs, finding the Albion, Criterion, Exchange and Royal sharing business with the Railway Hotel, which was built in 1914.
But after 109 years, owners Moe Reynolds and Cailin Piper announced on social media over the weekend that the old girl would be closing indefinitely.
“As you are aware, the price of everything is on the up, insurance, power, stock, just to mention a few,” they said.
“The current environment for small business, actually life in general, is very tough at the moment, and looks to be getting tougher.”
The pair explained that to combat being beaten by souring operational costs, last drinks were to be held on Monday (7 August).
They own the freehold of the pub and say they will use this time to sort out any renovations or issues, and plan to “catch up on loose ends” that have gotten away from them in recent years.
While they hope to one day reopen – “at a better time” – they were critical of the role played by local government in the hardship.
“We also feel that the town itself isn’t economically sustainable at this present time, with a below average council that is more interested in infighting than they are representing those who elected them in.”
Many consoling comments followed from residents and sympathisers, including John, from the Blind Pig in Orange.
“So sad to read this post guys, but you’re spot on, it’s insanely hard with all the increases.
“Hopefully you’ll be back bigger and better than ever!”
The Railway’s demise is the latest in a procession of closures by venues and small businesses, with many citing financial pressures and the rising cost of living.
