Reinventing The Local Icon
With Paul Fitzsimmons, Regional Manager Of Australian Venue Co.
When Paul stepped back into the fold at Australian Venue Co., it was a homecoming of sorts, and it just happened to coincide with one of the biggest transformations in Airlie Beach hospitality.
As the regional manager for Australian Venue Co., Paul oversees several venues in the region, but none quite like the Airlie Beach Hotel, a local landmark that has recently undergone a major transformation. Under Paul’s watch, the beloved pub has been reimagined with a $3.5 million renovation to its sports bar, tripling its capacity and creating a fresh energy that pulses through the heart of town.
“It’s the place to be,” he says.
“We’ve now added food service and dining to the Sports Bar, which wasn’t really there before.”
The Sports Bar has become a popular spot for major sporting events, regularly drawing full crowds for occasions like State of Origin, NRL, UFC, and the British and Irish Lions matches. Tripling the capacity has allowed them to accommodate the demand.
The venue’s transformation wasn’t just about expanding space; it was about embracing the spirit of the Whitsundays. With open-air dining, panoramic ocean views, and a sound system ranked among the best in Queensland, the Airlie Beach Hotel now offers an experience that rivals a meal or a drink.
Paul has had a deep and expansive career that has seen him travel the country.
He was formerly Chief Operating Officer for Morris Hospitality, was involved in the opening of Ardo Hotel in Townsville and oversaw The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville.
Prior to this, he worked with Australian Venue Co., and now he is back. As Regional Manager he’s managing not just the hospitality side of Airlie Beach Hotel but the accommodation and the entire regional footprint that includes bottle shops, other pubs like Reef Gateway and Jubilee Tavern, and the growing corporate sales operation.
Weekdays are never routine, and that’s part of the fun.
“Every day’s different, and that's the enjoyable part,” said Paul.
“There’s no normal day at The Pub.
“Cruise ship days are busy, and sometimes I’ll jump out, and it’s great to get back on the floor and see the people.”
The hotel is also adding vibrancy with weekly tribute acts, live music, musical bingo, poker nights and more.
“We’re bringing in more midweek options to give people more reasons to come, not just on weekends or game nights,” he says.
Looking ahead, Paul said Australian Venue Co. are looking at expanding their current 80-room hotel, launching comedy nights and continuing to invest in entertainment that keeps Airlie Beach Hotel a true destination.
Airlie Beach Hotel is a venue that caters to everyone. It’s all about elevating that experience for locals, tourists, and everyone in between, and Paul is at the heart of it.
