A heritage-listed country pub is facing permanent closure after 113 years of business.
Pubgoers on Saturday enjoyed a final beer at the Commercial Hotel Rappville, about 80km north of Grafton in New South Wales‘ Northern Rivers, on Saturday night.
Publican Lisa Stewart has remained steadfast in her $975,000 asking price for the venue since listing it for sale several months ago.
However, locals fear the failure to find a buyer could see the historic pub close its doors for good.
‘We will not sell to anyone who wishes to turn the hotel into a home,’ Ms Stewart wrote online.
‘The hotel must be kept operational as a business in whatever capacity that may entail with licence attached.
‘So please rest assured we will only sell if the hotel remains open for the village of Rappville and public.
‘It is not always about money but preserving historical buildings and their life’s history, stories and purpose.’
The Commercial Hotel Rappville is one of the oldest and last timber pubs standing in NSW.
The Commercial Hotel Rappville (pictured) faces permanent closure after 113 years of business
The pub (pictured) has failed to secure a buyer for its $975,000 asking price
The Commercial Hotel Rappville, known around town as the Rappy, was bought by Ms Stewart in 2020 following devastating floods.
She and her family spent countless hours restoring the pub to its former glory but on Saturday knew it was time to close up shop.
‘The Rappy will be having last drinks and unfortunately after much hard work by our family, at this stage, the hotel will remain closed thereafter,’ she said.
‘We thank everyone for your encouragement, enthusiasm and support over the past almost five years for the Commercial Hotel Rappville.’
More to come.
