Darleen’s a goner

After shutting the doors of Darleen’s Taphouse in Busselton as COVID-19 hit, leaseholders Rocky Ridge Brewing have decided not to reopen the venue, which poured its first beer just two years ago.

Rocky Ridge national sales manager Ricky Watt said they were looking for someone to take over the lease. He added that since the Jindong brewer opened a cellar door on Marine Terrace, Darleen’s had become more “nightlife spot” than beer venue.

“We definitely hold fond memories, but we know that it’s time to focus our energy on the cellar door, which will become our spiritual home.”

The cellar door is actually RR founder Hamish Coates’ refurbished 1930s family home.

The craft brewer has also packed up its bar in Subiaco’s Vic Hotel, with the owners hunting for a tenant to take over the pub.

Coates has said that Rocky Ridge would steer clear of hospitality ventures and focus on their core beer and distribution business, including exporting their packaged products.