The “Top Pub” Commercial Hotel of Kyogle has changed hands for the first time in nearly two decades, welcoming first time hoteliers the Dawes family into the game.
Port Macquarie-based owners Deb and Scott Facey have held the Commercial of Kyogle, four hours’ drive to the north, for the past 18 years.
Their tenure has brought major additions by way of a fully operational two-lane bowling alley and generous kids’ playground, complementing the three public bars, timber verandas, gaming room with 15 EGMs, and 19 upgraded accommodation rooms, 13 featuring ensuites.
The town of Kyogle was established in the 1830s, growing into cattle and dairy farming and forestry, becoming famous for its red cedar and hoop pine that went on to create many of the now antique items of Australian furniture. Known as a gateway to many national parks, central to the Border Ranges, Toonumbar and Nightcap reserves, Kyogle is a well-patronised tourist destination.
Having owned a business in Sydney, then for a period in the UK, Nathan Dawes and family more recently moved to live in the Northern Rivers region.
After some time on the purchase trail, the Commercial came as an opportunity he could not pass up.
“It’s a great country pub with a friendly, excellent team and plenty of upside,” he says.
“We plan to do some renovations in the new year to better reflect the heritage of the town and the history of the pub.”
Drawn to its persona, where locals and visitors alike are warmly welcomed, Dawes says he looks forward to keeping the ‘Top Pub’ the heart of the community and carrying on the spirit of a family institution.
“The locals have been supportive, and I want to make it really special for them.”
The off-market sale was managed by Deane Moore of Moore & Moore Real Estate, who notes the conclusion of “some busy times” with accountants and lawyers this week, following exchange on Monday, immediately followed by settlement.
“It’s a great feeling to have a new hotel operator entrust me with their livelihood, and it is just as rewarding to see excellent results for my vendors.”
