Plans for the Groundz at Dapto Showground may have been delayed by the last COVID-19 lockdown but Colliers International Wollongong has resumed marketing the dining and family recreational precinct as two venues open.
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Groundz chief executive Katrina Novak said the Tap House bar and a function space called The Gable were launched just over a week ago.
Ms Novak said the Tap House follows on the success of a three-month-pop-up by a local brewing company earlier in the years.
"The Groundz received countless requests from the community for the continuation of an indoor/outdoor family and pet friendly space in Dapto, so we have committed to operating the Tap House for the summer months and if the community get behind it, we'll consider making it a permanent offering. It is a great space and there is nothing else like it in Dapto," she said.
Ms Novak said the Tap House boasts a large outdoor green space and adjoining undercover area, where patrons can watch live music on the outdoor stage every Sunday.
Food trucks will alternate and the bar will offer a range of craft and mainstream beers, wine and cocktails.
"The Groundz is even offering its very own lager, named "est. 1857" which is a nod to the Dapto A&H Society's long local history," she said.
"The main bar has been hand crafted with upcycled pallets and other recycled materials to create a warm and inviting space. It fits the theme of the Groundz and supports the A&H's commitment to reducing waste and doing their bit for the environment."
Ms Novak said The Gable is in an old shed that has had many uses over the years. She said the function space has strong links to the society's rich agricultural and horticultural history.
"It has been lovingly repurposed into a function space that is full of character and rustic charm and seamlessly connects to the outdoor Tap House, green space and leafy surrounds," she said.
"Even before we launched on Friday, we started receiving bookings for the Gable. People appear to like the indoor outdoor aspect and it's completely unique and has great appeal."
Ms Novak said following the relaunch of the marketing campaign, expressions of interest have started to be received that are consistent for the vision for the precinct. And the feedback received from the community during the consultation process.
"We are pleased with the progress and will continue to work through the expressions of interest with Colliers over the coming months," she said.
"It is important for the community to know that the Dapto Agricultural and Horticultural (A&H) Society Ltd will continue to operate as usual. The focus of the campaign is to source potential partners to work with us to further increase the use of the land and offer more for the local community."
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
