Built in 1939, and boasting one of the longest bars in Australia, the impressive Captains Flat Hotel is ripe for the picking.
With four bars, a beer garden, a restaurant and 22 guest rooms, plus a managers’ quarters, the pub is less than an hour’s drive from Canberra, and set in one of the region’s thriving mining communities.
John Buckley from RE/MAX says the sale offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own and operate a country pub.
He explains the recently closed hotel is sorely missed by locals who hope to see new owners get it back up and running.
“Almost everyone has a story with some form of association to the Captains Flat Hotel, from motorbike riders relaxing after weekend jaunts, to wide-eyed day trippers and history buffs looking at the relics of the former Lake George Mine,” he says.
“The property is in good presentation and simply needs a licensee to be up and running.”
John says there are regular enquires for weddings and other functions, and with more than 20 guest rooms, there is tremendous growth potential.
“The hotel is enormous, considering the size of the village, but could be advanced and utilised as a cafe, coffee shop, restaurant or function centre,” he says.
Pending approval, the building could also lend itself to an antiques and curios business or rural supplies.
“It’s a grand property of impressive proportions and what must be almost unlimited possibilities,” says John.
Captains Flat is a thriving community with a primary school and police station, and is a popular destination for day trippers.
“The historic mining village is picturesque and peaceful, loved by visitors and locals alike,” says John.
The Captains Flat Hotel’s public bars are almost fully stocked and ready to launch back into business.
“The taps are iced and the beer is cold,” says John.
Previously, one of the smaller rooms was used as the local post office, and some large employers have sought to lease the entire accommodation quarters for staff.
John says the hotel is “ideal for those who want the work-life balance”.
“No need to trade full-time, [just] provide coffee and a toasty for the early commuters, plan for busy weekends, and close at sensible times midweek,” he says.
“For a moderate investment, you get unparalleled land, an amazing building, and only one competitive business with the local RSL.”
For more information about Captains Flat Hotel, contact John Buckley at RE/MAX Capital Canberra Region on 0429 843 777.