Esteemed Victorian publican, Ian Larkin (pictured left), passed away on 8 August at the age of 65 after a long battle with illness.
Larkin was a long-time beacon of the Ballarat pub community, and an advocate for country publicans across Victoria. Born into the pub trade, Larkin had managed pubs in Ballarat and Torquay since 1975. His venues over the years included the Red Lion Hotel, Crossing Hotel, Larkin’s Bar and Grill and the Lake View Hotel. His most recent pub was Irish Murphy’s in the centre of Ballarat.
He served as an AHA Vic Country Vice-President, a member of the Executive and a Councillor for the Ballarat North division for several years. Larkin was also a Life Member of the Victorian and national branches of the AHA, and was awarded the prestigious Nikakis Benchmark Award in 2004.
“Throughout his time as a publican many of Ian’s pubs won industry accolades both locally and nationally. He was incredibly supportive of the AHA and cherished the friendships he made within the hotel industry,” stated Kimberley Malcolm, senior manager – membership and industry engagement of AHA Vic.
“His love and enthusiasm for the industry was palpable and was ever present for those of us who got to share a beer with Ian.”
“Ian fought courageously for some time to beat his illness and we will miss him dearly.”
Larkin is survived by his wife Trish and sons Guy and Nicholas.