Merivale has purchased The Whale Inn, a boutique hotel and restaurant in Narooma on the New South Wales South Coast.
A hidden gem in the heart of the Eurobodalla region, The Whale Inn boasts breathtaking views of the inlet and beaches. It is home to seventeen individually-appointed rooms and suites, as well as a laidback restaurant and bar.
Merivale has taken over the custodianship of the property from Matthew Deveson and Jen Houghton-Deveson, who owned and operated the beloved inn for 15 years.
Justin Hemmes, CEO of Merivale, said: "Matt was a true gentleman; a man of great kindness and dignity who truly loved Narooma and the wonderful people who call it home. It is an honour for us to continue Matt and Jen's legacy".
Hemmes has made no secret of his love for Narooma and the South Coast, with Merivale having recently announced the purchase of The Quarterdeck, a tiki bar set on the shores of Forsters Bay.
"Narooma has become my second home and the backdrop to so many of my happiest memories with my family. I think it is one of the most beautiful spots in the world", he said.
Merivale will receive the keys to The Whale Inn this week. Accommodation will remain open, while the restaurant will close for a quick refresh, before opening again next month. Refurbishment plans for the property will be announced in due course.
In March 2021 Merivale acquired The Quarterdeck in Narooma making it Merivale's first hospitality venue outside Sydney.
Mr Hemmes said of Narooma "I think it is one of the most beautiful spots in the world, with a unique landscape, crystal clear waters and an amazing community of people who call it home. It has been an absolute privilege to spend so much time here over the past six years and I'm excited to now join the local business community".
"One of the silver linings to come out of the last year is a heightened appreciation for our own backyard, an excitement to explore our spectacular country and its coastline. We are so lucky to call Australia home".
"Set on the shores of Forsters Bay, The Quarterdeck has been an institution in the Eurobodalla community for decades. Originally an oyster grower's shed, it has been operating as a Tiki bar for the past twenty years." The Quarterdeck will trade as normal for the foreseeable future.
