Purdy when he calls for last drinks under his reign as publican of the Rifle Brigade Hotel.

After 15 years, seven months, and 17 days, David will be farewelled as he moves on to new ventures and leaves behind a rich store of memories.

"I'll miss the people, the staff and patrons," he said.

An investment in Oktoberfest and black-tie events are remembered fondly, with more than 2000 people housed in marquees at the back of the pub.

An appeal which raised $60,000 for bullet-proof vests for Bendigo police was also described as a great achievement.

"People around town all got behind it," he said.

Located near the Bendigo Volunteer Rifle Brigade, the pub takes its name from the historic barracks nearby.

With a boutique brewery, the award-winning drinking spot has given aspiring young musicians the start they needed where others may have not, David said.

"We used to start all the new kids here on Thursdays and Sundays."

Although he won't miss the after-work stuff, such as cleaning, David said he had been blessed with an outstanding staff: "I've just been so lucky."

On the subject of the new smoking laws in hotels since July 1, David said he had noticed a huge difference in patronage, particularly among the afternoon clientele, with an estimated weekly loss of $3000.

However, he expected them to return in the coming weeks.

David said the mid-winter introduction of the laws had made business particularly tough, with punters who arrived at the pub in large groups returning to private homes to smoke.

But beer price increases, which came into force on Wednesday from the Commonwealth's beer excise duty, had not contributed to a slump in consumption.

"It happens twice a year, every year," David said.

Drinks at the Rifle will begin after work today and are expected to continue well into the night.

Chris DeAraugo and Ray Shaw will perform from 9.30pm.

Former staff and patrons are welcome to attend.