King Island’s only pub is up for sale, offering a rare chance to take over what is being called one of the most unique hospitality businesses in Tasmania.
The King Island Hotel, located on Main Street in Currie, is the sole pub on the island and serves as a social hub for its tight-knit community of around 1,600 residents.
The asking price is $600,000 for the business.
The leasehold includes a public bar, restaurant, private function room and 13 accommodation rooms on the first floor, along with equipment.
The sale comes after long-standing publican John Smith called time on his 30-year-stint at the venue.
Smith, who is turning 70 this year, employs six permanent staff and up to 20 casuals.
Matt Baylis, the agent handling the sale, said the decision was simply about Smith moving on and starting “another chapter in his life.”
Baylis said the hotel’s appeal comes down to its central role in island life.
“It’s such a central part to the island and the community,” he told Pulse.
“It’s a base for people to come to to connect, socialise.”
The hotel is also a major drawcard for visitors, with King Island renowned for its world-class golf courses at Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes, its famous cheese and crayfish and some of Australia’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
“It’s a draw card for a lot of the tourists that do pop over to the island,” Baylis said.
With no local competition being the only hotel on the island, the business is described as delivering consistent turnover with strong profitability.
A long lease gives the incoming operator security and room to grow.
Baylis said the sale represented a standout opportunity.
“It’s just a great opportunity for someone to come in and play a crucial role to the community on the island,” he said.
“It’s a really consistent business and it’s very important to the island.”
