24/04/2026
Big one to write…
I moved here from Geelong chasing a new adventure, at one point literally living on-site while the pub was being renovated. I couldn’t have imagined how much this place and community would come to mean to me.
From day one, Nelligen welcomed me in. Together we’ve listened, built, and brought new life into what is now a true community hub. From events like Nellijam to Full Steam Ahead and ANZAC Day, it’s been something special to be a part of.
None of it happens without the people behind it Rob, Ben Bon, Jade and Prakash — the engine room. Special mentions to Melita , Jeff and Soraya❤️ for helping lay such a strong foundation early on.
To the community, you’ve treated me like one of your own. Cumbo, Bruce, Rob McClelland — thank you for helping me find my feet. Marianne, Glen, Craig, Tugboat, Mark Bennet, Anna and Ronnie — your support, honesty and generosity never went unnoticed.
To the trades behind the scenes — Riley, Ricky, Nick (always dropping tools when I needed it), Alex Clark for keeping music top notch, Bailey for making it look and sound amazing, Mick Kenny keeping AFL alive in an NRL pub, Broulee Brewhouse, Capital Brewing, and all the clubs, businesses and locals in between, you’ve all played a part.
And to the wider team — the staff who show up, care, and deliver every day — you’ve built a reputation to be proud of.
A big thank you to Ben and Kalina. Not just great operators, but genuinely great people. The support, trust and freedom to build something meaningful doesn’t come around often.
What’s taken shape here means a lot to me. Next time you see me, I’ll be on the other side of the bar. Drink in hand, soaking it all in as it keeps moving forward.
This is my last weekend with the Steampacket — I hope to see as many of you as I can to say thanks. Not just for supporting the Steampacket, but for supporting me.
