As Slim Dusty once said, there is nothing so drear than to stand in a bar of a pub with no beer.
So in a heartening triumph of community spirit, The Caledonian Hotel in Murchison has received their liquor license just in time for the holiday season and their grand opening over Christmas.
After facing an unexpected delay in obtaining its liquor license just days before they were set to open, the local pub will now be serving ice cold beers this weekend after advocacy from Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland gained them a temporary license.
After owner Sandra Reece raised the issue with Ms Cleeland during the week, discussions between the local Member and the Minister for Police and the Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation were able to resolve the issue in a matter of days.
Ms Cleeland expressed her delight that the local establishment would be able to host their grand opening in the coming days.
“It was distressing to hear of Sandra’s anxieties that she was opening a bar in a pub with no beer because of the delay in getting a liquor license,” Ms Cleeland said.
“It’s a proud moment when you can directly advocate for local businesses and members of the community that are just trying to succeed.
“I look forward to seeing them open up this weekend, and I’m sure the rest of the Murchison community will get right behind them.
“Attracting businesses to our smaller communities is critical for a vibrant local economy and job opportunities in town. The government needs to support businesses not suppress them.”
The Caledonian Hotel had applied for their liquor license over eight weeks ago after being told the license would be approved within a six-to-eight-week window.
However, delays in the department has seen a 13-week backlog prevent several businesses across the state from being able to open their doors and serve their communities.
