Rockhampton welcomed back its beloved Leichhardt Hotel last Wednesday when it reopened after a complete rebuild.
Operated by QVC, a joint venture between Australian Venue Co and Coles’ former Spirit Hotels, the hotel has now put a contemporary twist on the Australian cowboy spirit in its country-meets-city vibe.
The uniquely styled venue begins with its heritage arches across its expansive Denham Street frontage, along with vintage signage.
Inside, the country-meets-industrial look unfolds as it blends recycled timber with concrete textures, moody lighting with plush leather, and stand-out décor celebrating the Australian outback’s cowboy culture.
The menu is also true to the theme, showcasing Rockhampton’s top-quality beef in its grill section and offering hearty, country-inspired pub dining, including generously sized ribs and southern-fried chicken burgers.
On Wednesdays, $1 from every parmy sold will be donated to Farm Angels, a charity supporting farming families impacted by natural disasters.
Venue manager Natasha Ainsley was eager to point to the functionality of the space.
By day, punters can enjoy the all-new 695sqm beer garden, with its kids’ playground, dedicated bar, barrel seating and picnic tables, the bistro, or the sports bar with its new 4.2-metre LED screen.
By night, the bistro’s furniture rolls away to become a dancefloor and the pub becomes home to late-night live entertainment, featuring the likes of local bands to comedians and everything in between.
Weekly entertainment includes ‘Boot Scootin’ Bingo’, ‘Meat Tray Lasso Challenge’, free kids’ meals on Mondays and Tuesdays, Drag Bingo, and a Country Club Night, plus free kids entertainment on Sundays and much more.
With its lineup of entertainment already selling out, the pub promises to make true its aim of being an authentic, unpretentious and fun place to be.
“We are so excited to bring a taste of country to Rocky and to offer everything from a laid-back brew-style pub to a late-night music destination,” said Ainsley.
Rocky residents are invited to celebrate the opening at the pub’s Locals Weekend, 22-24 August.
Visitors have the opportunity to win cash, a 75-inch television and merch, as well as enjoy free entertainment including a kids’ petting zoo on the Sunday, all as they ride the uniquely Australian take on cowboy culture.
