Southern Cross Yacht Club precinct closing for redevelopment

A new look Snapper & Co will debut this spring on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin at Yarralumla, opening the venue up to a broader range of dining experiences.

The Southern Cross Yacht Club, Snapper and the MV Southern Cross will be closed from Monday 2 May to allow for redevelopment of the popular lakeside destination.

Following the introduction of the Courtyard Bar last spring plus the opening of new facilities for the Canberra Yacht Club, this is stage two of the redevelopment program.

The Canberra Southern Cross Club owns and operates Snapper & Co and CEO Ian Mackay said the refurbishments would not reduce the current offering but enhance it to cater for a wider audience.

“Fresh fish and chips in a family-friendly environment at one of Canberra’s best locations; that’s our core promise, which we will absolutely continue to deliver,” he said.

“While we will retain the magic of that casual experience in our courtyard and on the lawns of the lake, the refurbishment will deliver more opportunities for varied audiences, occasions and celebrations. I envision people coming for a long, lazy afternoon where they can sip an Aperol Spritz and listen to live music, while families can still picnic and kick a ball beside the lake.

“The addition of indoor dining also means cold, windy or rainy weather doesn’t need to spoil plans.”

Stage two will see the creation of a new indoor dining space and an upgrade to the existing courtyard. In addition, an extension of the kitchens will enable expanded menu options when Snapper & Co re-opens.

The re-opening will also feature a new area called The Deck at Snapper & Co. Situated on the site of the old Lakeside Marquee, The Deck will offer an alfresco full-service dining space taking advantage of the beauty of the lakeside location. This space will be available for private functions and event bookings.

The Club’s plans also include external pergolas to rear paved and decking areas and the installation of a new outdoor fireplace, outdoor furniture and shade umbrellas.

A new deck will have an unimpeded view of the lake after a row of five melaleucas is removed and replaced with dryland grasses. The trees will be replaced by five new melaleucas planted nearby.

New glazed concertina folding doors will secure an elevated dining area.

“The Deck will offer full waiter service and the ability to book a table – it’s for those after a more enhanced dining experience than picnic-style on the lawns,” Mr Mackay said.

Other plans include landscaping, new lighting, new waste and gas meter enclosures and minor alterations to the building facade.

The proposal will expand the ground floor’s gross floor area by 73 sqm, but the upper level will be unchanged.

The outside temporary marquee structure will be removed.

The new design is a creative collaboration between local Canberra architects Munns Sly Moore and interior design company Pony Design Co. Canberra builders Projex will complete the project.

The upstairs restaurant and bar at the Southern Cross Yacht Club Restaurant and MV Southern Cross will re-open on Sunday 31 July.

Downstairs, the all-new Snapper & Co retail offer featuring The Deck, The Courtyard and, of course, takeaway fresh fish and chips enjoyed on the lakeside lawns is expected to open in mid-September.