The regulars are disappointed but it’s last drinks for Allan and Sue Whatham.

Allan - or ‘Hack’ as he is fondly nicknamed -  says there has never been a dull moment after he made the profitable transition from dairy farmer to publican in 1987.

And, while it has been a labor of love that the hard-working couple has enjoyed, they are ready to trade the long hours and late nights for the tranquility of Nelson Bay.

“It is with a great deal of sadness but also a lot of relief that we have sold the hotel and we are now moving on in to complete retirement,” he explains.

“We will miss all the great friends and excellent staff we have been associated with over this time.”

A highlight for the couple has been being able to help local people in need with fundraising events and sponsoring both junior and senior sporting clubs.

From wide variety of sports, including being the major sponsor of the Glendon Cricket Club, to charities, like Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS), the ex-Singleton Greyhound who made seven grand-final appearances says this has given him great pleasure.

For Sue the massive fundraiser they organised for the Newcastle Earthquake appeal stands out and their annual ANZAC day commemorations.

While her husband mentioned the Wednesday night raffles groups like the Rural Fire Service and WRHS conducted.

But what they will miss the most is their valued clientele and friends.

“Unfortunately we don’t know the intentions of the new owners in respect to which direction they intend to go with the hotel. However we wish them all the best in their new venture,” Allan says.

“Thank you Singleton and we will be making regular trips back as we have family here.”