NEW management at St Ives Biere Cafe is thinking big about changing public perception of the venue.
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Jo and Herb Stratton, who took on the management of the Lincoln Causeway hotel last month, already have grand plans for it.
“We’ve already made a name for ourselves and now we want to take it to the next level,” Mrs Stratton said.
“We are in the heart of the Border and we want people to see what a great location it is.”
The couple owned Tall-angatta Hotel for almost 10 years and have managed the Empire Hotel at Beechworth and the Bluebrick Hotel at Kyabram.
Since taking over St Ives, the couple have reopened the conference room and set up a TAB.
Mr Stratton is keen to create an outdoor bar and to work on the beer garden.
Comedy nights, guest speakers and more live music are also on the agenda.
“The hotel is unique,” Mrs Straton said.
“Just have to look at the building and location.”
Owners Margaret and Ray Seit said they saw potential in the couple.
“Herb started work in the bar but I quickly saw he was more than just someone working behind the bar,” Mr Seit said.
“They’ve had extensive hotel experience and have already come up with some great concepts.
“We are determined to make ourselves part of the community.”
Mr Stratton said he couldn’t wait to shape the future of the hotel in his new challenging role.
Mrs Stratton agreed, saying “we are here to stay”.