There’s something thrilling about stepping into a hidden alley, unsure of what awaits beyond the doors. That sense of mystery and adventure is at the heart of Three Wolves, the flagship venue of The Hospo Group—a team of innovative entrepreneurs who have reshaped Cairns' nightlife scene with small, high-quality venues brimming with character, craft, and community.
The Start of Something Special
Opening in 2016, Three Wolves was a game-changer. Tucked away off Abbott Street, the bar offered something previously unheard of in Cairns—a prohibition-style speakeasy with a focus on whisky and meticulously crafted cocktails. Dim lighting, intimate decor, and a capacity of just 100 people created a city vibe that Cairns locals and visitors were eager to embrace.
The vision behind Three Wolves belongs to original directors Darren Barber, Sam Kennis, and Grant Buckham, who identified a gap in the market for exclusive, high-end cocktail bars in FNQ. Later joined by Andrew Pare and Ben Pape, the five directors have since created a hospitality empire, expanding their footprint across Cairns and beyond while keeping their ethos firmly rooted in warm, personal experiences and exceptional service.
Building the Wolf Pack
After the success of Three Wolves, the group continued to innovate, opening Flamingos Tiki Bar in 2018. With its Polynesian-inspired decor and rum-forward cocktails, Flamingos brought a playful twist to Cairns’ bar scene.
In 2019, the team unveiled Wolf Lane Distillery, taking their passion for spirits to the next level by creating their own award-winning gins. While production has since moved off-site, the venue remains a sophisticated gin-tasting bar and distillery door, celebrating their craft with style.
Their suburban venture, The Fox, opened in Stratford in 2020, offering a relaxed wine-and-cocktail experience complete with build-your-own charcuterie boards. The venue quickly became a favourite for after-work drinks and live Sunday sessions.
In 2023, the group brought its expertise to two new venues. Cabana Bar, located in Palm Cove, introduced a beach-style aesthetic with a strong tequila focus, making it the go-to spot for margaritas and ocean vibes. Shortly after, they expanded into Edge Hill with The Hound, a charming new venue combining their signature prohibition-style atmosphere with a cosy neighbourhood appeal. Its focus on quality cocktails and warm hospitality has already made it a hit with locals.
A Philosophy of Excellence
At the heart of The Hospo Group’s success is a commitment to elevating the customer experience. “The idea is to bring that big-city vibe to Cairns,” says Andrew Pare. “When you come into our venues, you’ll be greeted straight away, and thanked before you leave. You’re not just a number; you’re not just a sale. It’s an experience that we’re trying to enhance.”
Signature cocktails like Smoke on the Water—a smoky twist on an old-fashioned featuring bourbon, cinnamon, and smouldering red cedar—are more than drinks; they’re experiences designed to delight and surprise. Each venue is also a hub for events, from comedy nights and masterclasses to private parties and corporate gatherings.
Looking Ahead
While their venues continue to set the standard for excellence in Cairns, the group shows no signs of slowing down. With a new project already in the works, fans of The Hospo Group can expect even more innovation and excitement on the horizon.
From the intimate charm of Three Wolves to the laid-back sophistication of Cabana Bar and the cosy appeal of The Hound, The Hospo Group remains a shining example of what hospitality in Far North Queensland can be. Here’s to Cairns’ Hospo Heroes, who continue to craft experiences that leave us wanting more.
You can check out their bars here