ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
As temperatures rise on the final day of summer, pubs across the country are reporting an increase in patronage, with workers leaving offices early to mark the seasonal transition with a cold beer.
The surge in demand began shortly after midday, as employees cited heat, tradition, and the calendar date as justification for early knock-offs. Hospitality venues in Betoota confirmed a sharp rise in beer sales, with taps running at full capacity.
“The last day of summer is an important cultural moment,” said publican Michael Reeves of The Lord Commercial Royal Railway Pastoral Cental Hotel.
“People want to mark the occasion properly, and that means a schooner in hand before the sun goes down.”
Office workers, tradesmen, and even some local government employees were spotted at venues by mid-afternoon, with many citing the extreme weather and the arrival of autumn as valid reasons for an early finish.
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast continued warm conditions into the weekend, raising expectations that the trend will extend into Saturday and Sunday.
More to come.
