Complementing its ambitious build program, Feros Group has announced two new ships in the fleet, sailing into north-east NSW and Darling Harbour.
In January the group took on an icon of Cockle Bay, Helm Bar, with its unparalleled views of the harbour.
The premium waterfront venue was established in 2002 and is a renowned dining and social experience, offering an elegant bar and bistro on its upper deck, and the Cockle Bay Yacht Club downstairs. A diverse menu champions fresh seafood, alongside international and local wines, craft and classic beers, and signature cocktails.
Feros says their goal is to enhance the Helm’s experience while maintaining what has made it a popular destination. Changes will be “thoughtfully planned”, introducing innovative concepts with the aim of making it Sydney’s premier choice for waterfront dining and entertainment.
“The venue’s unique location and exceptional offerings make it a perfect fit for our vision of creating extraordinary spaces where people can connect and create amazing experiences,” says group executive chair Chris Feros.
Further afield, the group has also acquired the historic Wicklow Hotel in Armidale, around 5.5 hours’ drive north of Sydney, which came to market last year.
The pub is a treasured local landmark and the oldest licensed hotel in town.
Feros cites similarly ambitious plans to rejuvenate and enhance the local, restoring it to be a venue that the community can be proud of, which incorporates a rebrand to become the Armidale Hotel.
“Our vision is to respect the hotel’s historic significance, while creating a genuine community asset,” furthers Feros.
“We want the Wicklow Hotel to be a place where families, friends, and visitors can come together and create lasting memories.”
Currently closed, renovation plans on the Wicklow will be announced in coming months, and reopening is anticipated for 2026.
While Feros says he’s “excited to be back in Sydney”, the Wicklow holds a special place.
“This purchase has a real family connection as dad grew up in Uralla and went to school in Armidale,” he says.
