By ANNA USHER

It was the end of an era on Australia Day, when last drinks were finally called at the Northbridge Hotel.

Built in 1931, the iconic red brick corner pub is now set for the wrecking ball, with the site to be demolished to make way for luxury apartments.

SJD Group Australia settled the deal in September last year, 15 months after it revealed controversial plans for a five-storey mixed use development at 57-69 Strathallen Ave.

Records show the site was purchased for $52.5 million.

On Monday, hundreds gathered at the pub for an emotional farewell, with some even shedding a tear before “time” was called at midnight.

In a message to patrons, owner Paul McGirr said the red brick corner pub had been “many things to many people”.

“It’s been a place to eat, to meet, to drink, to celebrate and to come together,” he said, “ a familiar constant in the community through changing times, milestones and memories.”

“We’ve absolutely loved hearing your stories – first drinks, family celebrations, catch-ups with friends, and moments that have stayed with you long after the night ended.”

Member for Willoughby, Tim James, said while the pub’s closure signalled the end of an era, he remained confident the McGirr family would find another hotel location in Northbridge.

“I’m pleased to say nearly all the wonderful staff have done well in finding their next role,” Mr James said.

“Thank you to the McGirr family who have put so much into this local icon.”

Established by Tooth and Co on land purchased in 1928, the pub was sold to Mr and Mrs Michael Parras in March 1982. Two years later, the couple won approval to refurbish the hotel and, in 1985, it was rebranded as “Floyds” – offering live music, a brasserie and self-contained accommodation upstairs.

The Northbridge later came under the ownership of Winners Circle Group before falling into receivership in 2009. In 2010, the McGirr family purchased the pub for an estimated $3.5 million.