A short drive from Victoria’s spa country is a new-look pub, the Blackwood Hotel, situated in Blackwood, a historic gold mining town 89 kilometres north-west of Melbourne.
This stylishly refurbished haven in the hills, poured its first drinks on the Australia Day long weekend, but officially launched this April ahead of Easter.
Established in 1868, The Blackwood Hotel is Victoria’s oldest continuously licensed weatherboard hotel, which now seamlessly blends modern comfort with the charm of its rich history.
This is the first time the new proprietors, Jerry Dimas and John Scardamaglia, have managed a pub, but between them they have more than 50 years of hospitality experience, managing popular food destinations across Melbourne including Berth, Cargo and Down The Rabbit Hole.
"The Blackwood Hotel is the historic jewel of Blackwood’s main street and it’s our intention to respect its heritage for many future generations to enjoy,” says Jerry, who moved to Blackwood eight years ago with his family.
"Our aim to is to create an inviting and comfortable venue for locals and visitors and serve the best possible meals and beverages.”
On the menu expect global influences with a Modern Australian style alongside pub favourites and the kitchen team will accommodate dietary requirements.
"Our Head Chef Andrew Papagiannis has created a delicious country-style menu in consultation with John and I, which celebrates local producers and growers,” Jerry explains.
"Some of our signature dishes include our parma, pork belly and sher Wagyu rump. Andrew has also added a Greek-style lamb shoulder dish in honour of his Greek heritage and grandmother who inspired him to be a Chef.
"We are also serving local beers on tap and award-winning wine from around the region,” Jerry adds.
The Blackwood Hotel also caters for an array of occasions, from casual dining, milestone celebrations and in its private dining room it can host corporate gatherings or intimate dinner parties for around 25 people.
"Another unique offering is our viewing deck, which is a great spot to enjoy a meal or drink while overlooking the scenic Wombat State Forrest,” says Jerry.
Giving back to the local community is also top of the agenda for Jerry and John.
"The Blackwood community has been so welcoming,” says John, a qualified Chef who oversees the kitchen operations.
"Therefore, we would like to give back to the community in which we operate through supporting local businesses and causes like the Country Fire Authority [CFA] and providing job opportunities and career pathways into the hospitality industry for locals.
"A main part of my role is training and mentoring staff, which I really enjoy and I feel I have a lot of knowledge I can share to help people thrive in this sector.
"Jerry and I also want to put Blackwood and The Blackwood Hotel on the map as a tourist destination,” says John.
"The township of Blackwood is stunning and only a short 1-hour drive from Melbourne, so it’s the perfect place to visit for a day trip or a weekend escape.”
The Blackwood Hotel is open seven days a week from 12 pm-late Monday to Friday, and 11.30 am-late
Saturday and 11.30 am-late Sunday.
To make table bookings and to learn more, please visit www.blackwoodhotel.com.au.
