Julie declared, “We’ve injected the old girl with tender, loving care!” Robyn added, “I’ve administered my feng shui knowledge and mystical touches.” The Ellens and the Shiels are not new to partnering up. Since 2003 they successfully run BJ & BJ Murphy’s Contracting Vegetation Management Company based in Leongatha. It was during a friendly game of golf, Dean and Dene casually chatted over the possibility of purchasing the Tarwin hotel. Three days later the deal was sealed. Dene amusingly claimed, “Consequently, Julie doesn’t want me playing any more games of golf!”

It’s been a spontaneous whirlwind for the two families, especially since refurbishing only commenced in early December. Robyn mentioned, “I sometimes wake during the night feeling a little anxious about the unforeseen future. By morning, anxiety is replaced with excitement, but it still sometimes feels surreal.”

Dean stated, “Although it would have been ideal to open the pub in time for the festive season, we are thankful the previous publicans, Dave Reyment and Jodie Anderson, allowed us to commence renovations before settlement date. It made a huge difference.”

The hotel will ensure a family-friendly environment with delicious lunch and dinner pub cuisine. Andrew, the appointed, talented chef, has relocated from Warrnambool after being sourced by the new publicans. Dean, who is known to be particular about the food he consumes, said, “The meals will be generous, mouth-watering and consistent, just the way I like them.” 

A new Glycol beer system will shortly be installed to keep the liquid gold a constant, perfect temperature from the keg to the beer tap, while the bar area around the exquisite fireplace has opened up to create ample space for patrons.

The re-stained, inviting front verandah will again host acoustic gigs in the near future. The leisurely Sunday afternoon sessions on the deck were always favoured among locals and tourists. A pub courtesy vehicle will be available for local visitors, who don’t wish to drive themselves.

More exciting visions and plans are in store for the Riverview Hotel; however, the present focus is to finally reopen for all to enjoy a cold beer and appetising meals, especially during the remaining summer holidays. It was expected the coastal towns of Victoria would be exceedingly inundated this year, due to covid-19 travel restrictions. The more Tarwin Lower/Venus Bay area has to offer holiday makers, the happier everyone will be.

Robyn, Dean, Julie, Dene, and their children are not afraid of hard work. Together with their extended, supportive families, they are extremely excited by this new venture. They assure me the beautiful, old lady will continue to exude her nostalgic warmth around the fresh alterations. Precious memorabilia collected and nurtured over the pub’s long history will also remain and hang proudly throughout the building, keeping significant memories alive.

The thrilled community and surrounds will shortly be welcomed by these endearing families to create ongoing, wonderful Riverview Hotel history. The town of Tarwin Lower is buzzing with anticipation and excitement!