Passing the baton: Former Echuca Hotel owner David Connally (second from right) with new owners Daniel Buckley, Barry Saunders and Brandon Harpley.
Photo by
Aidan Briggs
This year is set to be an exciting one at the Echuca Hotel as Barry Saunders, Daniel Buckley and Brandon Harpley get ready to settle into their new business.
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The Echuca establishment, which for the past 19 years was owned by David and Ann Connally, is the second for the three men, who also own 1895 The Royal.
“It’s a little bit bigger than we’re used to and a little bit more to get our heads around. But yeah, no, it’s been pretty good,” Mr Saunders said.
Appreciative of all the years Mr Connally has put in, Mr Saunders said he and his business partners weren’t trying to create something brand new but rather add on to something great that already existed.
“Dave set up good foundations of a pub, and we just saw a couple of different things that we might be able to bring from our experience at the Royal and add to what he’s already built,” he said.
“We’re keen to grow and keep providing this tourist destination with places to eat, drink and stay.”
Changing hands: New Echuca Hotel owners (from left) Daniel Buckley, Barry Saunders and Brandon Harpley with former owner David Connally. Photo: Aidan Briggs
Photo by
Aidan Briggs
Mr Saunders said it had been great to be a part of creating special nights for people.
“I get enjoyment out of people having a good time and being able to go out for a feed just like I quite like going out myself with friends,” he said.
“It’s quite enjoyable to provide that for people — spaces for people to be able to do that, whether it be with families or people just wanting to go out as mates.”
It is a sentiment shared by Mr Connally.
“I still miss the interaction,” he said.
“There’s no doubt probably what you miss the most is the interaction with customers and your staff.
“I managed 30 staff members every week. That can be a challenge, but it’s also good being involved with people.”
New era: Former Echuca Hotel owner David Connally (second from right) with new owners Brandon Harpley, Barry Saunders and Daniel Buckley. Photo: Aidan Briggs
Photo by
Aidan Briggs
Mr Connally said he had witnessed a massive change in Echuca’s hospitality industry over the years.
“When we first started here, even down this end of town, you wouldn’t have had any more than six or eight probably licensed venues,” he said.
“I had a bit of a motto with the Echuca, there’s nothing we can’t do, so you just did it. If someone wanted a milkshake, you did a milkshake.
“Certainly the way people go out has changed as well. Probably years ago it was very much that you just went out for an occasion. Now people go out all the time.”
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