40 workers lose jobs as three historic Goulburn pubs close
Three historic Goulburn pubs close on 1 November, costing about 40 workers their jobs.
Three historic pubs in Goulburn shut their doors on 1 November. About 40 employees lost their jobs days before the Christmas holidays.
The Empire Hotel, the Gordon Hotel and the Southern Railway Hotel were owned by former boxer Simon Paterson. Paterson bought them in early 2025 and planned renovations.
Simon Paterson put them up for sale in March 2026 and handed the keys to new owners from Wagga Wagga. Paterson told local media the cost of needed repairs ran into millions of dollars.
He said the business was just not feasible. The closures hit a town already reeling from the partial closure of Goulburn Gaol, a major employer.
Locals say the loss of three social gathering spots will reshape the community.
- 40 employees
- Jobs lost
- 1 November
- Closure date
- Early 2025
- Purchase date
- Millions of dollars
- Repair costs
Why it mattersSudden job losses in a small town with limited employment options create real hardship for workers and their families heading into summer.
AustraliaGoulburn residents lose key meeting places and local workers face finding new jobs in a regional town with few major employers after recent jail closures.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 h ago
