Glenn Piper’s Epochal Hotels has thrown in with a local syndicate to buy and rescue the beloved Tumbulgum Tavern, in the Tweed Valley, north of Byron Bay.
Built in 1887 on the banks of the Tweed River, enjoying a view of Mt Warning, the two-storey suburban pub is the only hotel in town.
Known locally as ‘Tumby Pub’ it is considered a must-see attraction in the Valley, offering a well-rounded operation and family appeal, including an outdoor kids’ play area and onsite parking.
Sporting memorabilia celebrating the region and its long history, the historic riverside hotel is dubbed the “beating heart of the Northern Rivers”.
For nearly a decade it has been in the hands of a private family. Looking to exit the game, they listed the Tumby freehold going concern, being their last asset. The sale cited potential to increase trade through expansion and modernisation, notably the unused bottleshop and scope for guest accommodation.
Taking up the mantle is a joint venture between Epochal Hotels CEO Glenn Piper and Northern Rivers investor William Nicholson. Together they have assembled a syndicate of local backers to safeguard the pub’s future, picking up the deeds for $7 million.
“The Tumbulgum Tavern is one of those rare pubs that seems to hold a thousand stories within its walls,” Piper says.
“Its history, its architecture, its riverfront location – it’s all incredibly special.”
“The Tavern has always been a true community anchor,” adds Nicholson.
“By joining forces with Glenn and the Epochal team, we’re ensuring that it not only continues to thrive, but evolves in a way that honours its roots while looking to the future.”
Epochal keeps and continues investment into an impressive portfolio of landmark pubs, as demonstrated at the reworked Harbord Hotel in Freshwater and Beach Hotel in Merewether, and the Commodore Hotel in McMahons Point, soon to reopen following a major restoration.
Acquisition of the Tumby was through Ray White Burleigh Group’s Ryan Langham and Nathan Huxham, who had described it as “a real destination venue, with history,” but have declined to comment on the sale.
Due to settle later this year, Epochal says it is planning “thoughtful enhancements over time” that will focus on elevating service and refining the offering. Piper says they will “build on what locals already love” to create experiences that reflect the character of the precinct and broader region.
Familiar with the area and wielding a penchant for coastal property, the pub baron offers he was immediately drawn to the Tumby pub when it was first flagged by a friend as on the market.
“The Northern Rivers is a region I already feel connected to – my family and I spend time here every year after beach volleyball tournaments in nearby Coolangatta – so to now play a role in shaping the future of this pub is a great honour.”
