Residents in Burpengary are getting a massive new two-storey entertainment and dining complex to replace a decades-old local pub, following a decision that prioritised neighbourhood peace over late-night gaming.
Balancing Growth and Peace
The local social scene is set for a major upgrade after the council approved a development application for a sprawling new venue at the corner of Facer and Rowley roads. Queensland Venue Co is driving the project, which will replace the Woodpecker Bar and Grill. The current establishment has serviced the community for more than 25 years, but the new design promises a modern, family-friendly environment spread across a massive block.
The site will feature a huge internal tavern and an uncovered outdoor beer garden that matches the size of a roofed outdoor area. Liquorland will be removed to make way for the spacious outdoor dining section. Families will also benefit from a new outdoor playground, making the venue a drawcard for daytime gatherings. The developers worked to address potential issues for nearby residents, including plans for managing traffic, handling noise, and planting landscape screening to separate the venue from bordering homes.
Community Concerns Heard
While the building design gained strong support, the proposed operating times for the gaming room sparked a debate. The developers asked the council for permission to keep the gaming machines running until 4 am. Local leaders pushed back to protect the quiet nature of the surrounding residential streets.
Mayor Peter Flannery pointed out that it made little sense to keep the gaming room operating so late when the rest of the facility was scheduled to close much earlier. He also noted his concern about the noise of patrons leaving the venue at such an early hour of the morning, given how close the homes are to the property. Councillor Jodie Shipway agreed with the mayor, stating that operating until 4 am was simply too excessive for that specific area.
Final Rulings and Operating Times
Following the discussion, the council unanimously voted to cut the requested gaming times back to a 2 am finish. The rest of the venue has standard operating times, with the bistro, beer garden, and sports bar shutting down at 1 am. The sports bar and gaming areas will start trading at 10 am, while the dining spaces will begin service at 11 am.
Currently, the Woodpecker operates from 10 am to 1:30 am. During the meeting, officials compared the new plans to other local venues, noting that the Burpengary Community Club, which sits in a highly residential pocket, closes at midnight. Meanwhile, the Burpengary Tavern is allowed to trade until 4 am because it is located in a heavier industrial zone where noise is less of an issue for sleeping residents.
Published Date 08-June-2026
Photo Credit: DA/2024/1594
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