regatta hotel Archives - Toowong News

Australia Day Policy Reversal Puts Regatta Hotel in Focus

The Regatta Hotel in Toowong, along with other establishments under Australian Venue Co (AVC) nationwide, has been the subject of discussion and controversy for AVC’s decision to ban (and then reverse the ban) on Australia Day celebrations across its 200 venues nationwide.

Initial Ban and Public Outcry

Australian Venue Co (AVC), which operates the Regatta Hotel and many other prominent Queensland venues, initially announced it would not allow specific Australia Day celebrations in 2025. The company cited the day’s divisive nature and its potential to cause sadness for some patrons. However, the decision sparked a wave of criticism, with many accusing the hospitality giant of overstepping its role.

The backlash was swift, with community members and political figures expressing frustration. Calls to boycott AVC venues began circulating on social media, highlighting dissatisfaction with what many saw as an unnecessary politicisation of the holiday.

Community and Local Businesses React

For residents of Toowong, the Regatta Hotel holds a special place as a historic venue and community hub. Locals voiced strong opinions on the matter, with some supporting the company’s sensitivity toward Indigenous Australians and others criticising the decision as out of touch with the public.

Nearby pubs in Brisbane announced they would continue traditional Australia Day celebrations, including barbecues and games. This provided an alternative for those who felt AVC’s policy did not reflect their views.

State leaders and local business owners in Toowong emphasised the importance of keeping celebrations accessible to everyone, noting that such events bring people together in a spirit of unity and pride.

Australian Day The Regatta Hotel Toowong — *Photo Credit: Tatters/Flicker*

Cultural Significance of the Day

Australia Day, celebrated on January 26, has long been a point of contention. While many Australians use the day to celebrate the nation’s achievements and multicultural society, others see it as a reminder of the impact of colonisation on Indigenous communities. The debate over whether to maintain, change, or reinterpret the date has grown in recent years.

AVC’s decision placed venues like the Regatta Hotel at the heart of this conversation. Critics questioned whether a pub should take a stance on a polarising issue, while supporters praised the company for addressing the broader cultural sensitivities of the day.

AVC’s Apology and Future Plans

In response to the backlash, AVC issued an apology and reversed its ban. The company stated that its intention was not to dictate how patrons should celebrate but to ensure inclusivity. It reaffirmed that the Regatta Hotel and other venues would remain open on 26 January, welcoming all guests regardless of their stance on the holiday.

This move has eased some tensions, but for others, the damage to public perception remains.

Local commentators have argued that the incident reflects broader cultural divides within Australia and the ongoing challenge of balancing tradition with evolving social awareness.

Published 3-Dec-2024

Regatta Hotel in Toowong Marks 150-year Milestone with Weekend Festival

Regatta Hotel in Toowong will mark its 150th birthday with a three-day festival, transforming the iconic pub’s laneway into a hub of live music, gourmet food, and special beverages.

The festivities will run from 13th to 15th September, kicking off at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and continuing throughout the weekend. Entry to the event is free, allowing community members and visitors alike to join in the historic celebration.

What to Expect

Local and interstate bands and DJs will provide a diverse musical lineup for the event. The weekend’s headliner, Tia Gostelow, will perform at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, 14th September. Gostelow, a Yuwi-based indie artist, gained recognition at 16 when she won Triple J’s Unearthed High Indigenous Initiative. Her debut album, Thick Skin, achieved GOLD certification, while her single “Strangers” went PLATINUM.

The laneway will host a food festival featuring a variety of gourmet food stalls. Visitors can also enjoy special anniversary cocktails and craft beers created specifically for the occasion.

Organisers recommend using public transport to attend the event, as the pub’s car park will be used as the festival venue. The Regatta has its own ferry terminal, making it easily accessible from various parts of Brisbane, including West End.

For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Regatta Hotel will host a 150-Year Birthday Dinner on 19th September. The event, held in the Boatshed Restaurant from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., will feature a five-course degustation menu prepared by Head Chef Lochlan Alexander accompanied by a premium three-hour beverage package.

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Historical Significance

The Regatta Hotel has been a central part of the Toowong community since 1874. Originally a one-storey wooden family home, it was transformed into a grand hotel in 1886, designed by architect Richard Gailey. The pub has evolved over the years, becoming the first in Queensland to allow women to drink in the public bar.

With 160 staff members working to cater to guests during the celebrations, the event highlights the Regatta Hotel’s role as a significant employer in the area. The pub continues to serve as a gathering place for university students, locals, and visitors, offering options from early morning coffee to late-night dining.

Published 12-Sept-2024

Statue Planned for Merle Thornton Near Regatta Hotel in Toowong

In a significant move to commemorate one of Queensland’s most influential feminist, plans have been announced to erect a statue in honour of the late Merle Thornton near Toowong’s Regatta Hotel.

Read: Regatta Hotel Leads Brisbane’s Winter Pub Scene

Dr Merle Thornton, who passed away at 93 on August 16, etched her name in history with a daring protest in 1965.

Photo credit: National Archives of Australia

Along with a friend, she chained herself to the foot rail of the Regatta Hotel, challenging the absurd ban on women drinking in public bars. This act of defiance became a watershed moment for the feminist movement in Australia.

The protest, though met with police intervention, garnered unexpected support from male patrons who bought drinks for the chained women. The incident concluded with a memorable quip from the police, “Goodnight girls. Have a good time. Don’t drink too much,” after they cut the chains.

Dr Thornton’s activism extended far beyond this single event. She founded the Equal Opportunities for Women Association, which campaigned successfully for the removal of the ‘Marriage Bar’ in 1966. This discriminatory policy had forced married women to resign from the Commonwealth Public Service, effectively punishing women for their marital status.

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) file on Merle Thornton outlining her involvement in forming the Equal Opportunities for Women association (Photo credit: National Archives of Australia)

As an academic, Dr Thornton left an indelible mark on Australian education. At the University of Queensland, she established the Women’s Studies Course, recognised as the first of its kind in the country. Her contributions to academia, women’s rights, and indigenous rights earned her appointment as a member of the Order of Australia in 2015.

Dr Thornton AM after being awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters at UQ (Photo credit: uq.edu.au)

Thornton’s legacy continues to inspire. In 2020, 55 years after her famous protest, women from the University of Queensland gathered at what is now officially known as “Merle’s Bar” in the Regatta Hotel to celebrate her honorary doctorate.

The planned statue will stand as a permanent reminder of Dr Thornton’s courage and the progress made in women’s rights. It will also serve as an inspiration for future generations to continue the fight for equality.

Merle Thornton is survived by her son Harold and daughter Sigrid Thornton, a renowned Australian actor. Her life’s work, which included involving her family in various forms of activism such as opposing the Vietnam War, demonstrates the far-reaching impact of her dedication to social justice.

Read: Toowong Village Stepping Up to Help Domestic Violence Victims

As Toowong prepares to honour this remarkable woman, the statue will not only commemorate Merle Thornton but also stand as a testament to the power of individuals to effect change and the ongoing journey towards true equality in Australian society.

Published 27-August-2024

Regatta Hotel Leads Brisbane’s Winter Pub Scene

As winter settles over Brisbane, Regatta Hotel is inviting those seeking warmth and entertainment. The historic venue, located at 543 Coronation Drive, is offering a series of enticing activations that are set to heat up the suburb’s social calendar.

Leading the charge is “Cheers & Cheese Date Night,” running until November 16th. This romantic offering invites couples to the hotel’s picturesque courtyard for an intimate evening. Priced at $45 per couple, the experience features a carefully curated cheese board with artisanal cheeses, fresh fruits, nuts, and gourmet crackers, complemented by two glasses of wine.

cheers & cheese details here!

Saturday mornings in Toowong are getting a purple makeover with “Jacaranda Brunch” event. Also running until November 16th, this event celebrates the beauty of jacaranda season in the hotel’s courtyard. For $79 per person, guests can enjoy a lavish two-hour food and beverage package, including a three-course meal with delectable dishes such as Tempura Zucchini Flower, Jamon & Roquette Pizza, and Cranberry & Macadamia Nut Fudge. The brunch is further enhanced by live piano music, creating a vibrant atmosphere under the purple-hued blossoms.

jacaranda brunch details here!

Adding an extra layer of excitement to Toowong’s winter scene, the Regatta Hotel is also introducing a pop-up frozen cocktail bar in their courtyard. This addition promises to bring a unique twist to the traditional winter warmer concept.

The Regatta Hotel offers a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary hospitality. Whether it’s for a romantic evening, a lively brunch, or simply enjoying a creative cocktail, the Regatta is proving that Toowong is the place to be this winter.

Interested patrons can find more information about these events on the Regatta Hotel’s website or by contacting the venue directly.

Published 23-July-2024

Sumptuous Vegan, Vegetarian Options Now Up At Regatta’s River Road Cafe

Photo credit: regattahotel.com.au

Regatta Hotel’s River Road Cafe in Toowong dropped a new menu and it features some fresh vegetarian and vegan options that would please even the most discerning palate.

Read: Dovercourt: Stunning Heritage Landmark in Toowong to Undergo Makeover

Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers sumptuous yet healthy dishes such as Thai beef salad, halloumi and chickpea, shakshuka, house-made nut and seed granola, and pulled pork nachos.

Regatta’s new menu adds a twist to the classics, like their eggs benedict with smoky pulled pork perched on top of English muffin and drizzled with hollandaise sauce.

Then their shakshuka, which are softly baked eggs surrounded by simmering tomatoes, halloumi, chickpeas, torn herbs, and sourdough toast will make you want to come back for more.

This quaint sidewalk cafe, located outside of Regatta Hotel, is a nice little spot for takeaway or customers looking for a small bite to eat. It offers a relaxed dining experience right on the river.

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A post shared by Regatta Hotel (@regattahotel)

Some of their best-selling items from their previous menu included loaded nachos, beer battered fish and chips, and chicken schnitzel. They continue to serve up a selection of steak, fish and chicken dishes with a selection of salads and sides.

Read: Enjoy a Picnic at the Toowong Winter in the Vineyards Pop-Up

If you want to come by to have a taste of their new menu, visit Regatta Hotel’s River Road Cafe at 543 Coronation Dr, Toowong. They are open seven days a week 06:30 am – 3:00 pm/ 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm. Reservations are not required. Visit regattahotel.com.au to view the full menu or check out their social media pages for updates.

Enjoy a Picnic at the Toowong Winter in the Vineyards Pop-Up

Mark those calendars because the Regatta Hotel in Toowong is about to host the Winter in the Vineyards pop-up to celebrate the new season!

From now until the end of August 2021, the Regatta Hotel in Toowong is set to host a special wintertime pop-up dubbed Winter in the Vineyards every Wednesday to Sunday. Here, attendants will be able to enjoy picnics amongst themselves and indulge in some locally-sourced antipasto in a cosy vineyard setting. People can also expect to find delectable snacks and desserts like baked jersey brie, goats cheesecake with sesame pastry crust, and of course, salumi plates.

Picnics hosted at the hotel serve up to two people, and they come with a large salumi share plate, a bottle of wine, and a picnic blanket that customers can take home.

Mulled wine.
Photo credit: Instagram/regattahotel

Every Sunday, starting from the 20th of June 2021, the Regatta Hotel’s mulled wine cart will roll into the venue. Event-goers will be able to indulge themselves with delicious beverages perfect for winter such as classic mulled wine, mulled apple cider, and hot honey mead, all to the sound of live music from Benjam band.

Then, on the 27th of June 2021, Winter in the Vineyards invites Brisbane to partake in the Harvest Festival to celebrate local produce, with market stalls offering a variety of local cheese, antipasto and wine while live music plays in the background to create a warm winter atmosphere.

Winter in the Vineyards will be hosted at The Regatta Hotel, which can be found at 543 Coronation Dr, Toowong every Wednesday to Sunday from 11:30 a.m. til late, though the mulled wine cart will only be available on Sundays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

For more information, visit their event page here. Follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on dates, details, and other special announcements concerning the event.

Toowong’s Regatta Hotel Set For Exciting New Expansion

In order to capitalise on the Regatta Hotel’s primo position by the riverside, the Australian Venue Co aims to give this iconic Toowong establishment some new and exciting renovations.

Toowong’s very own Regatta hotel has provided Brisbane with lodging, beer, wine, and cuisine since 1874. Now, plans are being drawn to expand the hotel’s beer garden, as well as to establish a rooftop terrace along Coronation Drive, between the Regatta’s heritage building and one of their restaurants, The Boatshed.

The Australian Venue Co intends to have the Regatta make better use of its location by giving people more access to the potential views the hotel can offer. A rooftop terrace is perfect for overlooking the Brisbane River. On the other hand, expanding the beer garden would take up more space in Sylvan Rd’s car park in exchange for being able to accommodate more guests.

Render and location of proposed extension.
Photo credit: PD Online/Brisbane City Council

In the past, the Regatta has served as the venue for many public events such as the Laneway Vineyard Festival, which showcased some of the most exquisite wine from around the world in 2017 and 2018. The upcoming Spin and Tonic — a sunset session scheduled for April 1, 2021, complete with beverages and live music — will also be held at the Regatta with its venue being The Courtyard, the hotel’s open-air dining and bar area.

Though the plans themselves have not been approved, their development is part of Australia Venue Co’s $53M campaign to renovate and clean up Queensland’s pubs and bars. Renovations are expected to begin either later within the year or early in 2022.

Winter Woodlands Pop-Up at the Regatta Hotel in Toowong

Dine in and get cosy at the magical Winter Woodlands happening at the Regatta Hotel in Toowong.

Don’t let the winter weather bother you. Bundle up in a warm blanket whilst enjoying the scenic woodlands view and some delicious comfort food offered for a limited time at the Regatta Hotel from 15 July until 2 September 2019.

The Regatta Hotel transformed their outdoor courtyard into and an enchanting winter woodland.

Feel free to lounge comfortably on their daybed as you indulge yourself with their Winter Woodlands Booth Package. This package includes a wholesome and filling Regatta Platter and your choice of hot beverage.

Options for the hot beverage include the Spiked Apple Pie- a satisfying and flavourful mix of warm vanilla liqueur, brandy, spiced apple cider, and nutmeg- and Regatta Hotel’s favourite winter potion, mulled wine.

Regatta Hotel’s Mulled Wine
Photo credit: Regatta Hotel/ Facebook

Here is the full menu offered at the Woodlands Booth.

The Winter Woodlands Booth Package costs $49 per person. And a minimum number of 2 guests are allowed per booth. Please note that this package is available only on weekdays (excluding Friday) from 11:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m.

If you want to explore weekend brunch with your family and friends, the Regatta Hotel also offers a Sunday Bottomless Brunch at their enchanting Winter Woodlands pop-up.

Surely nothing is better than a laid back Sunday brunch that includes a scrumptious “brunch board” of your choice with a free-flowing 2 hour beverage package.

Options for the brunch board are the Regatta Brunch Grazing Platter and the Gardeners Brunch Grazing Platter.

The Regatta Brunch Grazing Platter is a mouthwatering share board that is filled with croque monsier, truffle salami, mini salmon bagels and maple waffles; whilst the Gardeners Brunch Grazing Platter is a flavourful vegan platter that is piled up with delicious morsels such as cucumber sandwiches, chickpea tempeh, avocado, falafel, smoked sesame cheese and house-made waffles with vanilla glaze.

Click here to view the full menu offered at the Sunday Bottomless Brunch.

Regatta Hotel’s Sunday Bottomless Brunch is available for only $55 per person. The booth is open every Sunday starting at 11:00 a.m. But if you feel like staying in for a little longer after brunch, why not double up and stay all day at the hotel? Closing time for the Winter Woodlands booth is at 5:30 p.m. on Sundays.

Book a slot now for Regatta Hotel’s Winter Woodlands Booth Package and/ or Sunday Bottomless Brunch.

Treat Yourself to Fresh Seafood in this Toowong Hotel on Good Friday

Photo Credit: Regatta Hotel/Facebook

Are you looking for a delectable seafood feast on Good Friday? Head to the Level 1 Function Room of Regatta Hotel for a seafood buffet on 19 April from noon until 3:00 pm.

The Good Friday Seafood Buffet has become an annual tradition in Brisbane’s most iconic riverside hotel, known for its great atmosphere and sumptuous food.

Join locals and tourists alike for a selection of fresh seafood, hot and cold dishes and delectable desserts with highlights like the seasonal oysters, local prawns, steamed snapper, baked Atlantic salmon, and prawn laksa.

The fresh seafood, like the smoked trout, capers and dill with fresh lemon is not just perfect for Easter. It’s also a refreshing treat right in time for the balmy Brisbane heat. If you’re feeling thirsty, ride the tide to the cash bar for wine or cocktails.

Just a heads up, this seafood buffet is quite popular it gets easily booked out every year so if you don’t want to miss this, better book online now via Regatta Hotel’s website.

For more information about Regatta Hotel’s Good Friday Seafood Luncheon, follow them on Facebook.

Regatta Hotel Makes Way For International Chocolate Day 2018

The sweetest time of the year (we mean it literally!) in Brisbane is happening on 7 July — The International Chocolate Day. If you’re thinking of the best place to go to sink your teeth into sweet and decadent chocolates, you might want to check out the Regatta Hotel in Toowong.

The Regatta Hotel doesn’t shy away from specialty events and every year, they make sure to celebrate this particular event. Their signature Boatshed restaurant will offer a variety of chocolate desserts along with cocktails.

You can also step outside to the courtyard and feel the cool breeze as you dip fruits or marshmallows into their chocolate fondue.

All of this chocolate-y goodness will start at 4:00 p.m.

The good news? You don’t have to book at all. Just drop-by and indulge yourself in a world filled with everything chocolate. It’s every chocolate lovers’ dream!

Address: 543 Coronation Drive, Toowong QLD 4066