What’s happening?
The Leichhardt Hotel in the heart of Rockhampton has re-opened, marking the start of a new era for the city landmark. Following a complete rebuild, the venue returns as a country-inspired hub for live music, sport, dining and family-friendly events.
Its design nods to Rockhampton’s reputation as Australia’s beef capital, combining cowboy grit with a modern pub atmosphere. Heritage arches on Denham Street have been retained, joined by layered signage and an industrial-meets-country exterior.
Venue manager Natasha Ainsley said, “It’s a tale of two halves at Leichhardt Hotel. There’s the all-new Beer Garden, plus the indoor space that offers the bistro and sports bar by day but has the versatility to transform into a late-night entertainment venue. The furniture can roll away when the stage lights switch on! We are so excited to bring a taste of country to Rocky and to offer everything from a laid-back brew-style pub to a late-night music destination.”
Why it matters
The reopening restores one of Rockhampton’s most recognisable pubs, offering a fresh setting for community gatherings, live entertainment, and dining centred on Queensland beef.
Local impact
Each Wednesday, $1 from every parmi sold will be donated to Farm Angels, helping farmers impacted by drought. Weekly programming offers affordable activities for families, tradies, sports fans and music lovers, ensuring the hotel remains a local hub.
By the numbers
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695m2 Beer Garden featuring undercover space, picnic tables, seating and a playground.
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4.2m LED screen wall in the sports bar and 4m outdoor LED screen in the Beer Garden.
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$1 from every Wednesday parmi going to Farm Angels.
Zoom in
Inside, the décor features concrete finishes, recycled timbers, leather seating and subtle references to outback and cowboy culture. The sports bar delivers a game-day feel with its 4.2m LED screen, while the bistro offers casual dining.
The menu highlights Rockhampton’s beef industry through a dedicated grill section, alongside share-style starters and mains. Options include Smoked BBQ Pork Riblets, White Buffalo Southern Fried Chicken Burger, Chicken Parmigiana with toppings, and the Double Patty Smashed Beef Burger.
Weekly programming includes:
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Mondays – Kids eat free with a main.
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Tuesdays – $25 Steakout Tuesdays, Kids eat free with a main.
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Wednesdays – $25 Parmi and Boot Scootin’ Bingo at 7pm.
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Thursdays – Karaoke from 7pm, Tailgate After Party from 10pm.
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Fridays – Tradie Club at 3pm, Meat Tray Lasso Challenge from 5pm.
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Fridays & Saturdays – Acoustic music in the Beer Garden and Leichhardt Live with bands and DJs from 8.30pm.
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Sundays – Free kids’ entertainment from 12pm, $29 Backyard Sunday Roast, and live acoustic music from 2pm.
Zoom out
At night, the hotel transforms into a live entertainment venue, with dining areas converted into a dancefloor and a stage for performances.
Upcoming ticketed events include:
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22 August – Drag Bingo with Gayleen Tuckwood and Evalyn Eatdith.
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29 August – Country Club Night with DJs.
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4 September – Pacific Avenue.
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7 September – Daniel Champagne.
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10 September – Kylie Fisher.
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22 October – Ben Night, The Parent Teacher Night (sold out).
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4 December – Thundamentals, For The Love Tour.
What to look for next
Locals Weekend runs Friday 22 to Sunday 24 August, featuring prize giveaways, live bands, DJs, lasso challenges, a tradie BBQ, sports screenings, a kids’ petting zoo on Sunday and Drag Bingo on Friday.
