Big changes brewing at Joe’s

AN ICONIC Eumundi

Pub is undergoing extensive redevelopment and rebranding.

Joe’s Waterhole was purchased by Good Drinks Australia Ltd in November 2021 and work is underway to develop the historic pub into a family-friendly venue and brewery for the Matso’s brand.

Good Drinks head of hospitality Lee Behan said the plan for the redevelopment is to keep the heritage and character of Joe’s while creating a venue that shows people what Matso’s is all about.

“Last November we held a community evening with locals and business owners to show them what we’re planning and to hear their feedback.

“The family-friendly venue will include several different areas for locals and tourists alike. The original front bar will pretty much stay as is, and the venue will include an on-site brewery producing Matso’s core range of drinks along with rotating taps of limited-release and venue-only brews.”

With poker machines not a part of the vision, Lee said they recently sold the venue’s gaming licences for $4.9 million, which will majority fund the redevelopment.

“The venue and micro-brewery have been approved by the local council so work is now underway and on track for opening later in 2023.”

Broome-born brand Matso’s is known for creating Australia’s first alcoholic ginger beer.

“It is Australia’s number one independent ginger beer. Matso’s Mango Beer was also an Aussie first, and is part of a stable of drinks across the Matso’s range,” Lee said.