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A legacy that spans centuries
Origin
Built in 1872, this historic venue has stood as a witness to Collingwood’s vibrant evolution. From its early days as the New Bendigo Hotel, it became a cornerstone for the local community—a place where stories were shared, pints poured, and connections made. Over the decades, it has transformed and adapted, carrying the spirit of Collingwood through generations.
The Early Days:
The New Bendigo Hotel
(1872–1899)
In its earliest chapter, the New Bendigo Hotel was a meeting place for locals and travelers alike. Its almost-first publican, Joseph Brownhill, a Yorkshireman with a talent for hospitality, ran the pub from 1873 until his passing in 1891. In true Victorian fashion, his wife Fanny took over, ensuring the pub continued to thrive. Brownhill had previously run the nearby Norfolk Hotel on Easey Street, but the New Bendigo became his legacy.
A New Name:
The Baden Powell Hotel
(1900–2021)
At the turn of the century, the venue was renamed Baden Powell Hotel to honor Lord Robert Baden-Powell, a celebrated British hero of the Second Boer War and the founder of the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides. During his lifetime, Baden-Powell’s reputation symbolized resilience and adaptability—values that reflected the venue itself.
In the late 1920s and 1930s, as Melbourne embraced the Moderne architectural style, the Baden Powell underwent renovations to align with the trend, blending contemporary design with its historic roots. The 2008–2009 renovations modernized the ground floor while preserving the character of the facade.
Falling Into Disrepair (2021–2024)
By the 2020s, time had taken its toll on the building. After its closure, it was left abandoned, becoming a canvas for graffiti and a reminder of its former glory. An ambitious proposal for an eight-story redevelopment in 2022 was rejected, leaving the future of the site uncertain.
The Continuum Era
(2024 and Beyond)
In 2024, this historic venue was brought back to life as Continuum. Through a thoughtful renovation, the building was transformed into a vibrant, modern space featuring modern hotel rooms upstairs and a state-of-the-art bar and nightclub downstairs. The name Continuum reflects its enduring legacy—a nod to its storied past and its promise of an exciting future.
From its humble beginnings to its revival today, Continuum is once again a space for connection, celebration, and history in the making.