Walsh’s Hotel

Walsh's Hotel in Queanbeyan engaged Fore Group across three stages of refurbishment works, all delivered within a fully operational, occupied venue without disruption to daily trading. The first stage involved the relocation and extension of the existing gaming room into the former bottle shop, including the refurbishment of the adjoining storeroom and amenities to support the new layout. Structural modifications, complex building services integration, and meticulous management of hazardous materials were all key components of this stage, alongside maintaining public safety and hotel functionality throughout construction. Stage 1 main bar refurbishment followed, refreshing fixtures and finishes across the bathroom and bar areas to create a more modern and inviting environment for patrons, complemented by the addition of a new outdoor pergola providing sheltered dining. All works were carefully staged around the venue's operating hours, with noisy and disruptive activities scheduled outside trading to ensure minimal impact on daily operations. Building on this established relationship, Fore Group was then engaged to deliver the Stage 2 kitchen redesign - the most technically complex scope of the three. Located within the heritage-listed building, works involved structural wall removals, new openings to existing brickwork, and the installation of structural beams and lintels in close coordination with the structural engineer. Extensive temporary propping and staged demolition were required to maintain structural integrity throughout, while Fore Group worked closely with trades and designers to integrate new enclosed, climate-controlled areas and services within the existing structure, preserving the original design intent.