Nestled at the foot of the famous Barrington National Park, Moonan Flat Hotel has recently become a destination unto itself thanks to new owners, new management, and a major refurbishment.
When three friends from Newcastle decided to throw in together and buy a country pub, their trade skills came in more than handy during the process of bringing the popular Moonan Flat Hotel back to life.
After buying the pub in 2021, Richard Claut, Jason Stephen, and Danny Wicks, who all have full-time careers within the building industry, set about giving the pub a facelift while being sure to maintain the unique feel the venue is known for.
Licensee Sonia Marshman, said Claut, Stephen, and Wicks all placed a great deal of care and empathy into carrying out the renovation which was completed in November last year.
“For all three of them making sure the pub was still what people expected when they arrived was key,” she said.
“The overall aim was to improve but not change what it has been known as over the past 120 years.”
“Obviously you need money to keep it going but because of their local connection the ethos of their success is built around providing a hub for the community. That’s what they care about.”
The renovations include a new-look main bar and cellar, interior styling, updated accommodation facilities, the addition of a large pergola, and a complete overall of the restaurant which is now named The Third Wheel.
According to Marshman, the owners also have their own philosophy when it comes to success, which has nothing to do with making money from the pub.
“To them, success isn’t based on the monetary aspect of the venture,” she said.
“One of the boys has family in the area and the other two are avid bike riders, so all three have emotional ties to the pub.
“Obviously you need money to keep it going but because of their local connection the ethos of their success is built around providing a hub for the community. That’s what they care about.”
