Asahi Beverages has partnered with hospitality giants ALH and Australian Venue Co to open two branded beer venues: Australia’s first Carlton Draught bar in Melbourne and a Great Northern-themed venue on the Sunshine Coast.
Australian Venue Co reopened the Crafty Squire as the Hickens Hotel last week on Russell Street in Melbourne’s CBD after an extensive $12million renovation.
Now a four-level pub, including a brand-new sports bar and rooftop, it features the retro-themed The Carlton Lounge on the ground floor, with copper tank-fresh brews, 70s rumpus vibes, archival memorabilia and pool table.
The bar’s design is inspired by the rich heritage of the Carlton brand, which first graced Aussie pubs in the same era that the hotel was taken over by legendary manager Abe Hickens — a former British boxer and Australian champion.
Additionally, Northern Grounds will launch on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast on August 15. Built on the site of the former Waterfront Hotel in Diddillibah, Northern Grounds has been reimagined as a world-class venue inspired by the spirit of a Queensland camping trip.
The venue, a partnership between ALH Hotels, Endeavour Group and Asahi Beverages, has undergone a $5.1 million transformation led by ALH, reflecting Great Northern Brewing Company’s popularity among Queenslanders.
ALH Hotels General Manager Paul Carew said: “We’re extremely excited to be opening the doors to Northern Grounds, the latest ALH venue in Queensland and a unique new offering for the region.
“We’re not just opening a pub; we’re creating a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Queensland – mateship, simplicity and that deep connection to our incredible outdoors. Northern Grounds is our commitment to giving locals, day trippers, and holidaymakers a unique place to connect, relax, and enjoy the best of Queensland hospitality.”
Asahi Beverages Chief Commercial Officer Nigel Parsons said: “Great Northern is Australia’s most popular beer brand, and what better place for us to launch this concept than in its home state, Queensland. We wanted to create a space where people can connect with the brand in a more tangible way. The pub will embody the spirit of Great Northern – no fuss, warm and welcoming, and the perfect place to catch up with mates or take the family.”
The venue features firepits surrounded by communal seating, and classic Queensland iconography including a map marked with punters’ favourite camping, fishing, and hiking destinations.
The wraparound balcony, offering waterfront views, has been retained and enhanced with an outdoor fireplace and a dedicated children’s play area.
On tap at Northern Grounds, patrons can enjoy the full range of Great Northern brews, alongside a selection of classic, contemporary and craft beers including fellow Queensland icons Balter and Green Beacon, and the popular Hard Rated.
A menu highlight will be meat and seafood with flavours inspired by campfire cooking, featuring beef sourced from Queensland and seafood straight from the boats at Mooloolah River fisheries.