INGE HANSEN and HANNAH SBEGHEN
Brisbane City “watering-holes” are rolling in the kegs and stocking their cellars in preparation for a throng of journalists, foreign delegates and interstate police during next weeks G20.
The Laneway Bar owner Andy Buchanan said his business is considered a real local place, which is tucked away on Mary Street.
“It’s hidden at the back in our laneway here to get a bit of quirky charm and we like to think of it as a hidden gem,” Mr Buchanan said.
He said he aims to give his international customers a taste of Australia by introducing fruity cocktails in flavours of the summer season.
“Anything that uses a lot of our Australian fruits, so obviously something fruity.
“It’s about trying to show off Brisbane and show people a good time. We’ve got a lot to offer and a lot to show so that’s a matter of getting in there and putting it in front of everyone’s face.”
Nine Network journalist Shane Doherty said young journalists in particular would gravitate towards the Casino.
With nearly 4000 journalists in town and the official media centre going dry, The Fox Hotel is one of the closest bars to grab a cold, tall one.
The Fox Hotel owner Rohan Topley said although he won’t be expecting many international customers, he is prepared for an influx of police officers and other security teams.
“We have already made some arrangements for police with burger and drink deals,” he said.
Despite many businesses closing for the summit, Mr Topley said his establishment will run as usual and predicts an increase in customers.
“Regular businesses are generally closing around the city but the Fox will keep up with routine service.”
In addition, a ‘Global Flavours’ program initiated by Brisbane Marketing has been organised to cater for and supply beverages to journalists and other media representatives during the summit.