Two camels became the country’s quirkiest venue inspectors on Tuesday as they welcomed guests to the transformed Joe’s Waterhole pub in Eumundi, which is now reborn as Matso’s Sunshine Coast.
Matso’s is renowned as the creator of Australia’s first alcoholic ginger beer which was brewed to beat the heat and humidity of Broome in Western Australia where Matso’s have their iconic brewery.
Matso’s Brewery spokesperson Mick McKeown said he was eagerly anticipating the opening of Matso’s second Australian location this weekend, from Saturday 23 December.
“We scoured the country looking for our second national location and Eumundi ticked so many boxes for us from a brand point of view.
“Camels are also synonymous with Broome’s Cable Beach so we thought it was important to have some camels here today to inspect the new venue and ensure it is up to the same high standard we hold in West Australia.
“Matso’s is a slightly left of centre brand which is largely driven by our roots in tropical Broome so the opening of our second home in an equally quirky location such as Eumundi is fitting.
“We believe Broome’s remoteness and its tropical heat makes you think differently and Queensland’s long hot summers are the perfect way to ensure our patrons can enjoy Matso’s range of beverages which we believe is Australia’s original heat relief,” Mick added.
“Across social media we’ve seen Matso’s digitally land on the Sunshine Coast and now we are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our physical brewery, inviting the public to experience the amazingly refreshing liquid creations firsthand.“
Mick said while the pub has been rebranded to Matso’s Brewery, a number of the iconic features of Joe’s Waterhole have been reused and repurposed in the new venue.
“We understand and respect that many current and former patrons have an affinity with Joe’s Waterhole so the venue has been refurbished with timber and materials from the original pub. We’re breathing new life into Joe’s but keeping pieces of its history, especially in the front bar.
“The new look venue will feature a menu inspired by local ingredients in a relaxed setting including the front bar, main bar, restaurant, a covered beer garden and pool room as well as a unique Matso’s playground for the kids.
“We’ll be brewing our famous Ginger and Mango beers right here onsite supplying not only the locals but the whole of Queensland. We’re also in the process of installing a distillery to expand our portfolio into spirits and ready-to-drink beverages.
“With a mix of old Queensland heritage at the front and a fun new family-friendly casual dining space with a sprawling outdoor area out the back, Matsos Sunshine Coast has something for everyone. We’re also pet friendly!“
Mick said the goal for Matso’s has always been to offer patrons something extraordinary and the team is excited for people to experience their difference.
“With Matso’s Sunshine Coast, we’re bringing that vision to life with a blend of tradition and innovation, a bit of quirkiness, and a whole lot of fun,“ he said.
As the craft beer scene on the Sunshine Coast continues to flourish, Matso’s is poised to make its mark as a must-see destination for locals and visitors alike with plans for regular live music events, and an on-site brewery serving fresh, locally brewed beer and cocktails. With Matso’s at the helm, Eumundi’s iconic pub is set to embrace a new chapter in its storied history.
The official public opening of Matso’s Sunshine Coast will be held across the weekend of the 1 and 2 February. Guests can enjoy live music and DJs, roaming entertainment, face painting, and Matso’s delicious food and drinks.