Restoration of iconic SW hotel completed in time for 160th anniversary

[Pelican Press 0]

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Restoration of iconic SW hotel completed in time for 160th anniversary

After nearly a decade of work, the $3 million restoration of an iconic heritage-listed hotel in the South West has been completed in time for its 160th anniversary.

The Rose Hotel has been a cornerstone of the Bunbury community since 1865 — standing tall through two world wars, an earthquake and several tornadoes.

It has hosted prime ministers, a governor-general and generations of locals and holidaymakers.

The State heritage-listed pub was acquired by WA hospitality group LocalsCo in 2015, which had an ambition to preserve the building’s legacy and stature.

An interior renovation was completed in 2017 before an upgrade of the building’s exterior — including the veranda, first floor balcony, brickwork and decorative ironworks — was started nearly two years ago.

LocalsCo director Dave Allan said that was more of a “passion project” between himself and his business partner Lawson Douglas.

Camera IconLocalsCo directors Dave Allan and Lawson Douglas have overseen a number of historic pub restorations throughout WA, including the Subiaco Hotel and the Bayswater Hotel. Credit: Ian Munro/The West ***********

“Honestly, the inside was probably more important from a business point of view — actually getting people in and enjoying the venue,” he said.

“I‘m not sure it (the exterior) means we’re going to sell more pints, but certainly we were very proud to have done the work and make such an important building for Bunbury look as it should.

“We love the pub, we love the town. It’s nice to have that centrepiece back.”

After months of construction, the scaffolding has been stripped off in time to celebrate the hotel’s 160th anniversary.

Mr Allan said they were planning a big celebration in June for the milestone and “to mark what is a pretty significant occasion, not just for Bunbury, but also the broader hospitality industry around WA”.

“As the current custodians of the Rose, we are honoured to have led this extensive renovation, safeguarding its character while ensuring it remains a local pub for our community for years to come,” he said.

Rose Hotel venue manager Mat Jeffery said they had big plans for the occasion.

“With the work complete, we invite the community to once again enjoy the Rose in all its restored splendour,” he said.

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