The new owners at one of Ballarat's most beloved and historic pubs say they have no plans to change up a formula that's worked for decades.
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The Royal Oak's former owners, John and Karen Turner, officially handed the keys over to Dean Mangion and Gigi Milone on Friday, ending their almost-27 year run at the pub.
Ms Turner said she had "mixed emotions".
"It's a bit sad, we've been here a long time, we've seen a lot of good, a lot of bad, a lot of everything - lots of changes."
Mr Turner added the mind was willing, but the body was not - he was glad to see an enthusiastic young couple take over.
"They've had plenty of experience, Dean's worked for about 12 years in London in hotels, Gigi's English, they've worked in the same areas - they're both good," he said.
"We look at it as they're a young couple, it's their first venture, and they're having a go."
It's a lot of responsibility for Mr Mangion and Ms Milone - the Royal Oak, more than a century old, is a favourite haunt for the entire neighbourhood around South Street.
Ms Milone said she was excited to get stuck in - the couple moved to Apollo Bay from London, running hospitality venues there before seizing the opportunity when the Royal Oak popped up.
"We've always been in hospitality, we met working around the corner in two different pubs in London," she said.
"We always say, John and Karen have been here for 27 years, and you don't last that long unless you're doing something great.
"In some ways it's more difficult, because it means we have this reputation to uphold, there's a bit of pressure, but we feel like we're up to the task - we might update a couple of little things, like the curtains, but it's got good bones."
Mr Mangion said the first priority, now they've moved to Ballarat, will be getting to know the regulars.
"We've always loved pubs and talked about doing our own thing, when this came up everything sort of fell into place," he said.
"I think we want to add to it - the look and feel of the building will always remain the same."
In good news for fans of the Oak's perfect pub menu, it might get an update but the classics will stay.
"We don't want to change the soul - when you walk in, you get that vibe, and we want to keep that," Ms Milone said.
"You'll still be able to get massive rib-eye steaks."
One addition will be allowing dogs to enjoy the beautiful beer garden outside.
"That's something that's important for us - there's a spot where you can come and chill with a beer, and bring your well-behaved dog," she said.
"It's a really good size beer garden - we have a few ideas about the stables, but we think we need to be here a bit longer."
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The Turners said they'll be staying in Ballarat - Ms Turner said she will be glad to not be watching the clock all the time.
"We wish them all the luck in the world," she said, adding a brief message to the community they had built.
"Thank you for all your support over the years."
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