About Invergordon Bar

Scottish Heritage in Melbourne's Docklands

The vision for Invergordon Bar is deeply rooted in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the Scottish pubs Dean frequented during his childhood. Dean and Erin, with their rich and varied backgrounds, are set on recreating that sense of community right here in NewQuay Docklands, Melbourne.

Dean's early years were spent in the bonnie town of Invergordon, Scotland, where he lived in the old Station Master's house next to the rail station. The pubs in Invergordon were more than just places to enjoy a pint; they were the heart of the community, bringing people together to share stories, laughter, and support. These experiences left a lasting impression on Dean, teaching him the value of face-to-face interactions and the deep bonds that can form from regular gatherings.

Erin, born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, has always been drawn to the sense of community. Her fondest childhood memories include playing in the court with other kids and a memorable camping trip around Australia with her family. Erin's mother is from the Philippines, and her father was Australian with deep Scottish roots tracing back to the Dundas Family, associated with the historic Dundas Castle and Blair Castle. This heritage has instilled in Erin a profound connection to Scotland's rich history and traditions. Tragically, Erin’s father passed away from motor neurone disease in 2009, but his influence on Erin's values and her commitment to family and community remains strong.

After moving to Docklands in 2021, Erin and Dean quickly noticed a gap in the local social scene. Despite Docklands being home to a diverse group of residents – from professionals and students to retirees and tourists – there was no central place for locals to gather, network, and build lasting relationships. They envisioned Invergordon Bar as that much-needed hub.

NewQuay Docklands is the perfect location for their venture. The area’s vibrant demographic, close proximity to Marvel Stadium, hotels, and its inclusion in the free tram route all contribute to its potential. Unlike the many Irish pubs in Melbourne, Invergordon Bar will celebrate Scottish heritage, offering a unique twist to the local bar scene.

Dean and Erin’s backgrounds uniquely qualify them to create this type of bar. Dean’s experiences in Scottish pubs taught him the importance of community, while Erin’s natural talent for hospitality has equipped her with the skills to ensure every guest feels welcomed and valued. Together, they share a passion for people and a commitment to fostering connections.

Invergordon Bar will be designed to be a small, warm, and cosy place, reminiscent of the old Scottish bars Dean remembers. Despite being in a modern city like Melbourne, the bar will evoke the charm and comfort of a Highland pub.

The events and gatherings at Invergordon Bar will further strengthen community bonds. From cultural celebrations like St. Andrew’s Day and Burns Night to Australian festivities, the bar will offer a diverse range of activities. Dean and Erin also hope to start regular Ceilidh Sessions, encouraging residents to come together and share their musical talents, stories, and poetry.

To maintain a welcoming and cosy atmosphere, Dean and Erin will continuously listen to their patrons’ needs and desires. They are dedicated to creating a space where everyone feels like they belong, encouraging patrons to engage with one another, find common ground, and forge new friendships and collaborations.

Invergordon Bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a place to come together, share stories, and create lasting memories. Dean and Erin are committed to bringing the heart and soul of a Scottish pub to Docklands, making it a true home away from home for all who visit.