Ben May and TMG Developments have sold the landmark Manly Wharf and Hotel to the owners of Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves.
The recognised international landmark was one of the first purchases for TMG Developments, led by Robert Magid, who picked up the freehold property through receivers.
Manly Wharf was built in 1855, as the northern terminal for the Sydney to Manly Ferry – billed for decades as the journey “7 miles from Sydney, a thousand miles from care!”
The original heritage-listed Wharf underwent major upgrades in the 80s, reimagined as a hospitality destination that has come to include Hugos and Merivale’s Queen Chow, and the cornerstone Manly Wharf Hotel.
The property was listed for sale late 2022, expected to attract both local and international buyers.
HSW, founded and directed by Adam Flaskas and Paul Henry, pronounces a strong interest in revitalising historic locations, having already transformed the similarly heritage-listed Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane into an entertainment precinct, ranging Felons Brewery, restaurants, cafes, bars, event spaces, and a hotel.
“We are honoured to be the new custodians of the historic and iconic Manly Wharf,” says Flaskas.
“With such incredible history in the area, we’re excited to embark on this new journey, breathing new life into such an iconic site.
“Manly has a loyal community that welcomes people from everywhere to this special place where the harbour meets the beach.”
HSW has reportedly paid $80 million for the freehold in a sale through CBRE’s Simon Rooney and James Douglas. And separately, the new landlords are thought to have paid circa $30 million for the Hotel operation.
Industry veteran and long-time owner Ben May told PubTIC he actually had no intention of selling.
“The guys from Howard Smiths Wharves made me an offer that was too good to refuse.
“And the timing is just right, with a couple of exciting opportunities about to begin.”
May acknowledged the valued input of “great guys” and GMs Drew Wallin, Justin Tynan and currently Pete Hurrell, who were crucial to the business for many years.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what Adam Flaskas and Paul Henry bring to the place as a whole,” he adds.
“I think they will do some great things and be very successful. They are the perfect buyers for the Wharf.”
