THERE are three big causes for celebration at the Paddington Ale House, including a couple of milestones.
The Paddo was this week named joint winner in the best sporting entertainment venue category at the Australian Hotels Association Hospitality Awards , while owner Neil Randall celebrated 30 years working there and next week the venue turns 85.
Mr Randall said since taking over the iconic pub in 1987, he had seen many ups and downs.
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“In 2000, I did a major refurbishment and that really set the Paddo off and we won the national 2003 Best Bar Presentation and Service Award.
“We took a downturn in 2014 when the Burswood Casino did a major refurbishment and attracted more of our customers.
“With the downturn in the economic environment and with the proliferation of small bars, cafes, restaurants, it has spread our customers far and wide.
“However, the encouraging signs from the north-west have started bringing more people to WA; we have already seen an improvement in trade in the last six months.”
The Paddo has not only been a popular hangout spot for locals, but celebrities too, many of whom have performed at the venue.
“We had live bands such as Killing Heidi, Spiderbait, Thirsty Merc, 28 Days, The Stems, The Audreys, The Cruel Sea, The Whitlams, You Am I and Delta Goodrem,” Mr Randall said.
“Sports stars such as Wayne Carey, Sam Newman, Dane Swan, Billy Brownless and UFC fighter Tito Ortiz have also been here.”
Mr Randall said he saw a strong future for the pub.
“This great industry is always evolving and expanding, more so over the last decade than ever before and the Paddo will continue to adapt to the changing times and culture,” he said.
“We always look forward and endeavour to revolutionise the hospitality game, this is why the hotel has been standing strong for 85 years.”
The Paddo will celebrate on Friday, November 24 from midday to midnight.
Kids get a free drink each.
Local Australian Hotels Association-Aon Hospitality Awards winners
WA’s Best Bar Presentation and Service Venue Winner: The Queens Tavern, Highgate WA’s Best New Venue Winner: Measure Bar, Mt Lawley WA’s Best Contemporary Bar Menu Joint Winner: Five Bar, Mt Lawley WA’s Best Restaurant Joint Winner: Ria Malay Kitchen, Leederville WA’s Best Cocktail Bartender Winner: Bjorn Karason – Tiki as FK, Northbridge WA’s Best Venue Manager Joint Winners: Steve Halliday, C Restaurant; Katie Chan, Long Chim at State Buildings; Fiona Sham, Varnish on King; Elodie Boneyd, Five Bar WA’s Best Bar Team Winner: The Mechanics Institute, Northbridge
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