Great Northern, Australia’s favourite beer, is opening its first-ever flagship venue – Northern Grounds – on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Located just metres from the surf, the new destination brings the brand to life with open fires, locally sourced food and of course, ice-cold brews.
Built on the site of the former Waterfront Hotel in Diddillibah, Northern Grounds has been reimagined as a world-class venue inspired by the spirit of a Queensland camping trip. It’s everything you love about your local pub, reimagined for the outdoors, think coal-cooked meals, flowing beers and a laid-back vibe set against the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast.
The venue, a joint venture by Asahi Beverages, ALH Hotels and Endeavour Group, has been transformed following a $5.1 million-dollar investment.
ALH Hotels General Manager Paul Carew says Northern Grounds is a significant investment in the Southeast Queensland region, reflecting Great Northern Brewing Company’s popularity among Queenslanders.
"We’re extremely excited to be opening the doors to Northern Grounds, the latest ALH venue in Queensland and a unique new offering for the region,” Paul says.
"We’re not just opening a pub; we’re creating a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Queensland - mateship, simplicity and that deep connection to our incredible outdoors. Northern Grounds is our commitment to giving locals, day trippers and holidaymakers a unique place to connect, relax and enjoy the best of Queensland hospitality.”
Asahi Beverages Chief Commercial Officer, Nigel Parsons, says the venue has been designed to capture the spirit of the laid-back, communal and nature-inspired elements of the Australian camping experience.
"Great Northern is Australia’s most popular beer brand and what better place for us to launch this concept than in its home state, Queensland. We wanted to create a space where people can connect with the brand in a more tangible way.
"The pub will embody the spirit of Great Northern – no fuss, warm and welcoming and the perfect place to catch up with mates or take the family,” Nigel explains.
Following 15 years without renovation, the space has been completely reinvigorated by Cayas + Ward Architects and builders Herron Coorey.
It features firepits surrounded by communal seating and classic Queensland iconography including a map marked with punters’ favourite camping, fishing and hiking destinations.
The wraparound balcony, offering waterfront views, has been retained and enhanced with an outdoor fireplace and a dedicated children’s play area, making it a welcoming space for families and groups alike.
On tap at Northern Grounds, patrons can enjoy the full range of Great Northern brews, alongside a selection of classic, contemporary and craft beers including fellow Queensland icons Balter and Green Beacon and the popular Hard Rated.
A menu highlight will be meat and seafood with flavours inspired by campfire cooking, featuring beef sourced from Queensland and seafood straight from the boats at Mooloolah River fisheries. The venue will also serve pub classics and generous share plates, all crafted using fresh, seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers.
Additionally, Northern Grounds will feature an event space, The Lodge, which will be open for bookings in the weeks to come.
Doors will open to the public on Friday, August 15, with the venue operating daily. Keep an eye on Northern Grounds' social media channels for exciting announcements on upcoming launch events and entertainment that will bring this unique venue to life.
