Merelda Pace has become the first female publican in Delegate, a small town in New South Wales, bringing new vitality to the century-old Delegate Hotel and the broader community. After relocating from South Africa and raising two daughters in Sydney, Ms. Pace moved to Delegate in 2025 with modest belongings and a desire to make a meaningful change.

Delegate, a town of just 295 residents, had been facing signs of decline, but Ms. Pace’s arrival marked the beginning of renewed activity. Initially intending to use the hotel as a retirement project where she could engage with locals, her plans evolved after immersing herself in the community and embracing her new role. She quickly became determined to revive the town’s social and economic life.

In less than a year, Ms. Pace has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement and supporting local residents. Her efforts include securing electric vehicle charging stations and organising events designed to draw visitors and encourage residents to remain in the area. She has also revitalised the Delegate Hotel as a social hub, creating an inviting environment that brings families together.

One of her notable achievements was coordinating the distribution of 130 free meals to women on Mother’s Day, recognising the often overlooked role of caretakers. The event drew families together for a day of celebration and strengthened community bonds.

Ms. Pace’s vision for the Delegate Hotel extends beyond a traditional pub atmosphere. Under her leadership, the venue has introduced family-friendly activities such as birthday parties, arcade games, movie marathons, and a karaoke booth designed to engage teenagers. Her focus remains on making the hotel a place where people of all ages can gather and connect.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed; she is among the nominees for the 2026 Shine Awards, which celebrate the achievements of women in rural and regional Australia. A nomination letter described her as “no more suitable” candidate for the recognition.

For Ms. Pace, the experience has been personally transformative. After 25 years in a fast-paced corporate career, she found in Delegate a “strong sense of purpose” and a community eager to collaborate and thrive. She believes her presence and efforts have sparked a renewed spirit in the town, and she remains committed to supporting its growth and wellbeing.