St Patrick's Day in the Whitsundays

Dublin-born publican Thomas Dunne is hoping the Whitsundays can help him secure a prize which is worth more to him than a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.

When it comes to Irish cliches, the owner of O'Duinns Irish Pub in Proserpine would have heard them all, but perhaps this is what makes his hotel one of the best in the country.

“There aren't many Irish pubs in this country that are authentic.

“Owned by Irish people and serve genuine Irish food,” Mr Dunne said.

In the lead up to St Patrick's Day a daily national paper in Australia is running a special internet poll to find the best Irish pub in Australia.

“It takes no time to vote and the rewards will be amazing. Proserpine will be publicised right across Australia.”

It's free to vote, just visit www.irishecho.com.au.

“Plus we're giving you a chance to win a $1000 bar tab.” he said.

St Patricks Day is hugely popular at O'Duinns Irish Pub in Proserpine with the national day stretching to a  four-day event next month from March 17 to March 20.

For more on St Patrick's Day in the Whitsundays see forthcoming editions of the Whitsunday Coast Guardian, available from leading newsagencies, Coles (Cannonvale) and the Chapman Street office in Proserpine.