Husband and wife publicans Shane Bourke and Barbara Konstantakis said they unfortunately had to move on from The Red Steer in North Wagga after seven months.

The couple took over the hotel-motel in August last year and quickly became a well-known duo within the community. 

Ms Konstantakis said she and Mr Bourke wanted to thank the wider community for all of their love and support during these tough times. 

“We are extremely disappointed about having to walk away from the business,” Ms Konstantakis said.

“We have made so many friends, many of which have contacted us in the past week, and we want to thank them for their support.

“We would like to thank all those who genuinely supported us and to the life-long friends we have made.”

Despite their relatively short run at helm of The Red Steer, Mr Bourke and Ms Konstantakis had become much-loved figures in the Wagga community who have already supported many good causes.

The couple even participated in a hay run to central western Queensland earlier this year in support of drought-affected farmers after Ms Konstantakis successfully attained her B-double trucking licence. 

Ms Konstantakis said they would continue their sponsorships and support of community causes through a different venture after a well-deserved break.

The Daily Advertiser understands the Red Steer is still trading, with its new managers settling in nicely.