As we fast approach the notorious St Patrick’s Day, we used up the luck of the Irish to interview the General Manager of the oldest Irish Pub on the Coast, D’Arcy Arms. Janene Porter (nicknamed: Flossy) who has been busy gearing up for the St Patty’s celebrations gives us an insight into the history of the traditional pub and also a feel-good miracle story that comes from the establishment.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I started commuting between the Gold Coast and Port Douglas in 1987 when I was apart of the crew on Mirage III, based at Marina Mirage. I then relocated to live permanently on the GC in January 1990.
What do you love the most about living here?
It’s the perfect balance between coastal surroundings and city living. Ultimately it’s the climate, beaches, hinterland, the overall easy-going lifestyle and of course, the locals.
Tell us about the history of D’Arcy Arms.
The pub was established on 8th August 1988 by founder Roy D’Arcy. D’Arcy Arms is an icon and is the longest-standing Irish venue (with a motel) on the Gold Coast. A great little story I love to tell is one of our former staff members, Robyn, was able to meet her biological father thanks to working at D’Arcy Arms. It all happened when a patron was chatting to Robyn and it was mentioned she had never met her father. The patron managed to find Robyn’s father, who was living in Guernsey at the time, which resulted in them connecting and meeting – they have been in contact ever since. It’s incredible because she would have never met her father if that patron hadn’t stopped in for a Guinness at the D’Arcy Arms.
What’s the craziest story to come out of D’Arcy Arms?
What goes on at the D’Arcy Arms stays at the D’Arcy Arms! Many of our patrons have been loyal since the pub opened in 1988. The D’Arcy has always been fortunate enough to have amazing support from both the local Irish & Aussie communities.
What can people expect at D’Arcy Arms for St Patty’s Day?
We have a full St Patrick’s Festival starting on Saturday 13th March. On Saturday and Sunday we are open from 12pm with incredible live Irish music, Irish dancing displays, delicious Irish Fare and plenty of craic! On the actual international St Patrick’s Day (Wednesday 17 March) we have a full day of entertainment starting at 10am with a line-up of Irish Musicians including: The Gathering, Munster Bucks, Mark Butler, The Carolan Academy of Irish Dance & Pipe Band. We will accompany this with delicious Irish fare, gift giveaways and of course the best Guinness, Kilkenny & Magners on tap, just to name a few things!
Tell us a fun fact, how many pints of Guinness are consumed at D’Arcy Arms on St Patty’s Day?
Honestly, you lose count!
Tell us your favourites on the Coast…
Café for breakfast: Hot Shott
Coffee spot: I am a Main Beach local, so anywhere on Tedder Avenue for a good coffee.
Restaurant for dinner: I’m more of a lunch girl and have many favourites from Burleigh, Broadbeach and Main Beach.
Bar or pub for a drink: The D’Arcy Arms of course!
How does your weekend usually look? I am usually at D’Arcy Arms as our weekends a very busy, but l do always start the day with a long beach walk. When l occasionally have a weekend off, a long lunch with friends is always on the cards.
