Tyro shouts $20K bar tab at historic Carlton pub, joined by UFC champ Alex Volkanovski

Melbourne, 23 February 2026 — Locals in Carlton will be treated to a free afternoon at the Prince Alfred Hotel and a chance to meet Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski later this month, as Tyro Payments puts $20,000 through the venue’s tills. 

This event is part of Tyro’s Big Buyout, an initiative designed to support local venues by buying out thousands of dollars’ worth of food and drinks, putting real money into Tyro businesses while giving back to their communities. 

On Saturday, February 28, Tyro will put $20,000 behind the bar at the iconic Prince Alfred Hotel. Alex Volkanovski will be on hand as Tyro’s Chief Tap Out Officer, part of the company’s recent efforts that has seen more than $50,000 injected into Australian venues over the past year. 

For Volkanovski, the Big Buyout is about backing businesses that sit at the heart of their communities. 

“Local pubs and businesses are where communities live. That’s where families, mates, and locals come together,” said Volkanovski. “It’s great to be part of something that gives back to the people who bring everyone together and gives them a proper lift. Seeing Tyro shout an afternoon of food and drinks, watching the place packed out and people enjoying themselves – that’s what it’s all about.” 

The Big Buyout reflects Tyro’s broader focus on helping businesses manage their cashflow more effectively. It comes as new Tyro research reveals the importance of timely access to funds, with nearly two thirds (64%) of business owners saying instant settlement of card payments into their business account would be valuable. 

“Our research reinforces how important fast, predictable access to funds is for businesses,” said Nigel Lee, CEO of Tyro. “We’re focused on helping businesses receive their money sooner, manage it with greater visibility, and secure flexible lending when they need it. When payments, banking, and lending work together, it takes the pressure off cashflow and gives owners greater control to focus on running and growing their business, not chasing payments.” 

EVENT DETAILS 

When: 2pm – 6pm, Saturday, February 28 2026
Where: The Prince Alfred Hotel, Carlton, VIC
What: Tyro Big Buyout, $20,000 food and drinks tab, with Alex Volkanovski on hand to meet fans 

ENDS 

Media enquiries: Georgie Hollis, media@tyro.com, +61 466 353 920 

Methodology 

Research was conducted by independent research agency Antenna, on behalf of Tyro. An online AntennaPoll survey of 519 Australian small business owners was conducted between 10 and 28 December 2025. Respondents were sourced nationally via an accredited online research access panel. Data was weighted for representation against the 2021 ABS Census.  

About Tyro   

In 2003, Tyro set out to make payments the easiest part of doing business. Today, we’re still into business big time, powering more than 76,000 merchants across Australia with in-store, online and on-the-go payment solutions. Working with more than 450 partners, we create seamless payment experiences for hospitality, retail, services and health providers, with integrated banking and lending solutions designed to help unlock the potential of every business.  

Tyro Payments Limited ACN 103 575 042 AFSL 471951 (Tyro) is the issuer of its own financial products. As Tyro does not take into account your personal circumstances, please consider if these products are suitable for you.