02 FITZGIBBONS

FAMILY ties run deep with the Fitzgibbons, the renowned hoteliers who for generations have tended bars and created a new level of pub dining in Toowoomba.

After all, the family can trace its involvement in building the city’s social scene back decades, and its generational links to the industry across Queensland for generations.

The Fitzgibbons own and run the (aptly named) Fitzy’s entity on Margaret St which, over the years, has gone by many names: The Caledonian, the Post Office Hotel and, just prior to a multi-million dollar revamp, Fibber Magee Irish Pub.

But for the modern diner, it’s Fitzy’s on Church which includes a national award-winning restaurant and garden bar fronting Church St, and popular walk-in pub Tapestry fronting the city’s main street.

The many iterations are a long way from the venue’s origins as The Caledonian in the 1800s.

Transforming the pub was a labour of love for John and Maralyn Fitzgibbons who built the hotel’s reputation which has continued with their children, daughter Anita Armanasco and son Brad Fitzgibbons and his wife, Bronnie.

Beyond the live music and lively dining scene is a collective social conscience that for years has identified valuable causes and supported them with gusto.

John and Maralyn are co-founders of It’s A Bloke Thing Foundation, and the pair remains committee members.

Anita has used Fitzy’s as a vehicle for change and fundraising, establishing a number of high-value campaigns that have given back to the city. And Brad advocates for safe nights in the CBD and is vice-president of the Queensland Hotels Association, along with strong ties to various community events.