Bush Pub of the Year

* There must be a minimum of three entrants in a category for all entrants to progress to the judging phase.

his award is judged by written submission only, with no site inspections required. This approach recognises that many bush pubs are located in hard-to-reach areas, making on-site judging challenging. To help bring your story to life, nominees are also encouraged to include a short video filmed on a phone showcasing the pub, its people, and its community. You can email this to the 

To qualify for nomination the hotel must be:

• Located in a town with an official population of 1,750 people or fewer, as published in the 2021 Census on www.abs.gov.au (population data is defined by the Suburbs and Localities number, which approximates officially recognised boundaries of localities outside of cities and larger towns).
• Located in a town at least 200km from Melbourne CBD.
• Situated in a “one pub town” (pub defined as a hospitality venue with a general liquor licence, offering both food and beverage).

This category celebrates regional and remote hotels in isolated bush settings. Pubs are typically independently operated and located away from major population centres. Hotels in coastal towns and on offshore islands are also eligible. Entrants do not need to offer the full range of facilities of a larger pub (e.g. restaurant dining, accommodation, bottle shop, or gaming) to be recognised.

Nominees cannot be finalists in both Best Bush Pub and Regional Hotel of the Year. This award is about doing the very best with what you have, showcasing the hotel as the heart of the community while running a sustainable business.

Written submissions should address the following:

• Community involvement – what role does the hotel play in its community beyond being a great watering hole? (e.g. supporting local sporting clubs, CFA, hosting town meetings).
• Overall amenity – what facilities and experiences does the hotel offer (food, beverage, entertainment, accommodation, unique attractions)?
• Overcoming adversity – how does the hotel overcome its commercial and geographical challenges (e.g. pricing, staffing, infrastructure, promotions)?
• History – is the hotel operation important to the history and identity of the region?
• Why your hotel should be considered the Best Bush Pub in Victoria.
• What makes your hotel unique or appealing, and why should patrons visit?
• Food and beverage offerings – include a copy of your menu and beverage list.
• Photo evidence including:
  • Hotel (interior and exterior)
  • Main bar area
  • Community events hosted or supported by the hotel
  • Key points of difference (memorabilia, setting, features)

Additionally, please outline:

• How your venue uses social media, website, local government, business networks or tourism bodies to encourage visitation to both your hotel and your broader region.