Discover the Charm of the Banana Bender Pub: Formerly Known as the Ettamogah Pub on the Sunshine Coast
Ettamogah Pub History
Have you ever wished you could step into a world where cartoons come to life? The Banana Bender Pub, formerly known as the Ettamogah Pub, on the Sunshine Coast, is the place to go! This unique establishment was once a part of the famous Australasian Post magazine’s cartoon world, brought to life by cartoonist Ken Maynard. Maynard, who had a love for empty spaces and solitude, was inspired by a location just outside Albury, New South Wales, and named his quirky pub creation “Ettamogah.”
The original Ettamogah Pub in Albury was built by businessman Lindsay Cooper in 1987, with the aim of creating a themed family restaurant that would become a tourist attraction. The timber building featured sloping walls and a distinctive architectural style true to the original cartoon design.
The Sunshine Coast location opened at the Aussie World theme park in Palmview in 1989, with then-Premier Mike Ahern cutting the ribbon. The construction took nine months and cost $4.5 million. A unique feature of this pub was a 1927 Chevrolet placed atop the roof of the building, inspired by a cartoon flood where the owners couldn’t be bothered to remove the vehicle. To celebrate its 21st year of operations, the pub began brewing and selling its own beer.
In 2014, following a dispute over intellectual property rights, the Sunshine Coast pub changed its name to Banana Bender Pub and removed any of the cartoon likenesses. In 2018, the pub underwent a substantial redevelopment project, which included more than 500 square meters of decking around the front and sides of the building.
Today, Banana Bender Pub continues to draw visitors with its unique charm and nods to its original Ettamogah Pub roots. Although the name and cartoon likenesses have changed, the spirit of the original pub lives on. The Banana Bender Pub offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, serving delicious food and drinks in a one-of-a-kind setting that transports visitors to a world where cartoons and reality blend seamlessly.
So, if you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast, be sure to stop by the Banana Bender Pub at Aussie World theme park. Experience the magic of a pub with a rich history and a fun, quirky ambiance that will surely create lasting memories for you and your family.
The unique and quirky design of the Banana Bender Pub will catch your eye as soon as you arrive. The wooden beams that look like they were pulled from a cartoon caricature and the vibrant colors of the exterior create a fun and lively atmosphere.
This pub was inspired by the Ettamogah comic strip by Ken Maynard, which was first published in 1959. The comic strip brought to life a fictional pub that had the same cartoonish appearance as the real-life Ettamogah Pub. The pub was first built in New South Wales in the 1980s, and later a second pub was opened in Palmview.
About Banana Bender Pub
The Banana Bender Pub is a classic Australian pub located in the heart of Brisbane, Queensland. With its welcoming atmosphere and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to grab a drink, catch up with friends and enjoy some hearty pub fare.
The pub’s quaint exterior may look unassuming, but once inside, you’re greeted by a long bar, a spacious dining area, and a great selection of beers, wines, and spirits. The Banana Bender Pub offers a traditional and diverse menu featuring classic pub staples such as fish and chips, steak and chips, schnitzel, and burgers. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a quick bite to eat.
What sets The Banana Bender Pub apart from other pubs is its warm and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re sure to feel at home here. The staff is always welcoming and keen to help patrons select from the bar menu, which includes local beers such as XXXX and Tooheys, as well as a wide range of imported beers from here in America and other parts of the world.
Live Entertainment At Banana Bender Pub
In addition to great food and drink, the pub also hosts live music and entertainment on select nights, providing the perfect atmosphere for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two. The pub’s large-screen TVs are perfect for catching the latest sporting events, making it a popular destination during major games and tournaments.
Another unique feature of the pub is the range of themed nights it hosts, ranging from retro karaoke to trivia nights. These events are perfect for groups of friends, family, or colleagues looking for a great night out.
Overall, The Banana Bender Pub offers a quintessential Australian pub experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon drink or a night out with friends, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at this classic local pub. So, next time you’re in Brisbane, be sure to stop by The Banana Bender Pub and experience for yourself what it truly means to be an Aussie.
Explore the legendary bar and discover something new and fascinating on each level, and don’t forget to grab selfies featuring the famous surfing kangaroo! You’ll be mesmerized as you take into their uniquely Aussie charm, filled with a generous amount of playfulness and explosive color from floor to ceiling.
