We’ve had hidden bars in murky alleyways, rooftop bars, basements, living room bars and now Melbourne has upped the anti with an island bar. Nestled under the Southbank Footbridge, Ponyfish Island floats on the Yarra River.

Ponyfish Island is the brainchild of three well-know Melbourne hospitality identities: Grant Smile from 360 agency, Andrew McKinnon of the Taboo Group and hospitality guru Jerome Borazio of Sister Bella and 1000 Pound Bend.

The quirky, small space utilises recycled timber, stools made from shipping palettes, hessian sack covers and wooden planter boxes filled with hardy green plants.

’The fit out was completed by the team at Moth Design; the group behind Penthouse Mouse and contributors to design conference Semi-Permanent.

”To compliment not only the existing structure itself, but also it’s position within the local environment, materials and fittings for the development of Ponyfish Island were chosen accordingly,” explained Jess Hill of Moth Design. “The use of recycled timber, flashes of bright yellow decoding structural steel, old oil lamps and various other items of marine paraphernalia aim to evoke a maritime aesthetic. These elements teamed with an abundance of succulents and glass oddities may well serve as a reminder for those familiar with the film ‘The Life Aquatic’ from which inspiration for the concept was drawn.”