A MILDURA bar owner will see his $2 million “dream project” come to life after Mildura Council gave the go-ahead for big expansion plans.
Mildura’s The Sandbar, on Langtree Avenue, will expand to include a function centre, with two new rooftop gardens and a specialty restaurant.
Works are expected to start after Christmas.
The expansion will also boast alfresco dining areas, a new kitchen and a lift for all-inclusive patron access.
Owner Malcolm Kalms said the project would be a “game-changer” for Mildura.
“This project is pretty much two to three years in the making and it will create an experience that you just wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else,” he said.
“The new additions will capture and attract a wide audience.”
The project will also open the door to increased employment opportunities, according to Mr Kalms.
“We’re going to have to put a whole new team on, which will create an additional 15 to 20 full-time jobs and casual positions, ” he said.
“With a new kitchen, we’ll be looking at employing another two to three chefs and a couple of apprentices. There will also be opportunities for bar and function room staff.”
The Sandbar’s most recent project was the construction of the Sky Garden Rooftop Bar, which was completed in 2017.
Mr Kalms said he was excited to enter a space that would allow The Sandbar to host corporate functions and events.
“The function centre will cater for large groups and parties, ideal for engagements, weddings, birthdays or big corporate events,” he said.
“We really want to cater to all audiences.”
The new specialty restaurant will also be in a “class of its own”, according to Mr Kalms.
“We’re going to try a few different things in regard to the restaurant, but our focus will be on tapas. People want smaller meals these days and to sit and pick while enjoying a cocktail,” he said.
“It’ll be all alfresco dining where people will be able to enjoy the outdoors and indoors with a new open roof.
“We’ve also got a big meat smoker, which has rocked up from Texas and is going gangbusters all around the world, so that will also be a fantastic addition.”
Mr Kalms said the project timeline depended on receiving construction materials.
“We’re pretty much ready to start, we’re just waiting on steel plans to come through — which should be any day now — and then it depends on how quickly the steel can be made,” he said.
“I’d say after Christmas we’ll go bang and be able to get it all finished.”
