7 Years @ The Sevenhill Hotel
There are feelings of nostalgia as Paul & Kate celebrate 7 years at the Sevenhill Hotel on Friday 28th August 2020.
7 years ago they moved their young family to the Clare Valley to take over their first business. What a rollercoaster ride it has been for them, learning the ropes as new business owners to building their brand and keeping it consistent. They have loved getting to know the community and have made some really close friends with the locals and met many tourists from all over Australia and the world. https://www.sevenhillhotel.com.au/about/
The first event they ever held was the 151st Birthday of the Hotel in 2014. Sadly, the Hotel was closed on the day of its 150th Birthday, under the previous owners, so they thought it only fitting to host a special dinner. https://www.sevenhillhotel.com.au/the-sevenhill-hotel-turns-151/
Prior to this event, Kate had discovered the lack of recorded history on the Hotel so compiled a history book incorporating old newspaper articles dating back to 1863 when the Hotel opened by Anton Krannewitter as the “Black Eagle” Hotel. https://www.sevenhillhotel.com.au/about/ Kate provided a speech on the night reflecting on the history of this iconic hotel. https://www.sevenhillhotel.com.au/about/#history
Over the years the owners have been heavily involved in the community. Paul has been playing for the Sevenhill Cricket Club, Kate spent 2 years running the Auburn Playgroup and being a part of the Sevenhill CWA. Both Paul & Kate have been keen supporters of Variety SA – the Children’s Charity, participating in the Variety Bash annually.
Paul & Kate have been recognised by the Australian Hotels Association SA for their Community Service and Support, receiving certificates of merit in 2016 & 2019. Over the years they have donated and sponsored many local Sporting Clubs, Schools, CWA, BlazeAid, CFS, Little Heroes, 2H Project, Richardson Park Playspace and Parma for a Farmer to name a few.
Their proudest achievement thus far has been the AHA Best Country Dining Award which was first received in 2017 then won back to back in 2018 and again in 2019. AHA awards have been delayed this year due to Covid but they are striving to win again for 2020 to get them into the Hall of Fame. https://www.sevenhillhotel.com.au/awards-winner-again-2019/
Last year saw the refurbishment of the Hotel, giving the restaurant and entrance areas and fresh, vibrant, welcoming look. Covid closures saw the business pivot and remain open to service the community with a takeaway food and beverage options. This was very well supported. Paul & Kate were grateful to be able to keep staff employed and service the community. Covid closure allowed Kate & her Dad to build an outdoor deck in the beergarden. This has created another dining, entertaining area for the hotel.
The latest addition to the Hotel is the introduction of the “Sevenhill Hotel Courtesy Bus”. This service is for patrons of the hotel to promote the responsible service of alcohol. They are excited to have Ashley Coad come on board as New Head Chef to bring fresh new ideas to our seasonal menu. Ashley has come from a busy Adelaide Hotel background where he has lots of experience.
Paul & Kate look forward to continuing to work hard to grow the business and their reputation.
