YASHEELA Anjali may have a Masters’ degree in artificial intelligence, but there is nothing artificial in her approach to running a pub. Having recently celebrated one year of taking over Avenel’s Imperial Hotel with husband-chef Ram, Yasheela couldn’t want for more intelligence with how they run their community-based business. “The locals have taught me how to pour a beer,” non-drinker Yasheela said. “The local community is always welcoming and always helping and suggesting.” Community feedback is the mainstay of this true "locals' local", where anyone who wishes to have a say in how the Imperial is run, simply can. This includes Avenel’s apparent penchant for tribute bands and even asking Yasheela to order in their favourite drinks. “Joker poker, bingo nights the tribute bands have all been asked for by the customers. “We ask regulars should we do this, should we do that? “If someone likes a particular beer, then I will say ‘OK, I will get you in a slab of that’,” she said and then reminded this correspondent of such a deal. “Remember, I ordered in that Guinness for you, Andy.” If love is any evidence of playing a long game in business, then Yasheela and Ram are qualified. “We had an eight-year long distant relationship,” Yasheela said. “He moved here first before I came out six years ago (from Hyderabad, India); then we married.” The couple changed the menu after only one month last year and introduced themed-menu Thursday’s, rotating between seafood, schnitzel, pork, and the highlight of the town – curries, which can pull a crowd of 200. “Everything is made from scratch and that’s what people love about that. “I personally make them myself with that very authentic touch.” The community orientation goes beyond supporting the local sport teams and school, with Yasheela insisting they go watch games. The warmth coming back from Avenel locals is telling. “I don’t feel I am in Australia sometimes; I feel I am back home because it is so warm and welcoming in this town. “We want this to be community oriented, where people feel at home. “The community have got to have the ownership - we have got to celebrate what they want.” A family-friendly Taylor Swift tribute show will be held at the Imperial Hotel on Saturday, 12 April at 7pm.
