Carlton Club and Windsor Castle rescued by The Ganley Group
A buyer has come to the rescue of two Melbourne hospitality institutions: the Carlton Club and Windsor Castle.
The venues, which owed hundreds of thousands to creditors including the ATO, were sold in a last-minute rescue deal to Melbourne hospitality group The Ganley Group.
The Windsor Castle owed over $200,000 to employees, $66,104 to trade creditors and $421,412 to the tax office. Unsecured related parties were also listed as being owed $380,351. The Carlton Club owed more than $350,000 to employees, over $3.4 million to unsecured creditors and $1 million to the tax office, at the time of its collapse.
The previous owners were placed in administration late last year, with Administrators Rachel Burdett and Shaun Matthews of Cor Cordis saying the Windsor Castle officially changed hands last month.
“The purchasers have continued to trade the business, ensuring continuity for the venue,” the Administrators said.
“All employees as at the date of settlement (excluding the director) were offered continued employment by the purchaser on either equal or better terms.
“The contract includes provisions for employees to be offered employment as part of the settlement.”
Both venues have continued to trade and remain popular.
The Carlton Club offers a multi-level restaurant, cocktail bar and nightclub located on Bourke St in Melbourne’s CBD, while the Windsor Castle features a dining room, beer garden and function space.
While the sale prices is undisclosed, it is estimated to be around $3 million.
Ganley Group is run by builder-turned-publican Liam Ganley and has St.Kilda venues Irish pub Fifth Province and beer watering hole Freddie Wimpole’s and the Bay Hotel in Mornington under its umbrella.
“Reimagining and restoring some of Melbourne’s oldest buildings, we strive to be unique and respectful to the building’s heritage while breathing new life into the old girls,” their website states.
The Ganley Group intends to keep the Windsor Castle an iconic “local” for years to come.
“We’re committed to preserving everything that makes these venues so special — timeless, welcoming venues with unbeatable beer gardens that invite long afternoons and late nights filled with friends, good conversation, and a steady flow of pints,” Ganley said.
The Group also raised the possibility of a future redevelopment for the Carlton Club.
“For now, the Carlton Club will continue as is, with Ganley Group taking the time to understand the building’s quirks, charm, and rich history,” their statement read.
“The venue’s fantastic outdoor spaces and central location in the heart of the city offer tremendous potential for future development.
“However, Ganley Group’s priority is to steady the ship, introduce new systems and procedures, and build a strong foundation before embarking on the exciting journey of reimagining this remarkable venue’s future.”
Former owner Tracey Lester said she was “extremely pleased” the venues had found a buyer and that all staff entitlements were covered along with secure jobs. However, she said she was disappointed her offer to recapitalise the business had been rejected.
Jonathan Jackson, 20th March 2025
