Regional landmark the Westminster Hotel of Temora is entering a new era at the hands of ambitious newcomers, transforming a tired operation into a family-friendly destination pub.
The proud new owners are Jamie and Sally Keith, who bought the freehold business from Steve Svetec through Peter Campbell Real Estate’s Neil Harvey, in Wagga Wagga.
Jamie grew up on a farm in Temora, before moving to Wollongong on a five-year scholarship and contract to play for the Dragons. From there he ventured into construction, graduating to building fancy custom homes and be MD of JRK Design and Build.
Around five years ago the couple bought a winery, then expanded into five-star accommodation at Sambar Hills, in Cheshunt, in central Victoria.
More recently they began buying property in Temora, coming to own the lots on either side of the pub.
Despite having no history in hospitality prior to the winery, when the opportunity came up to buy the Westminster they decided it would be a good complement to their other businesses.
While currently also building units at the other end of Temora, the pub project is pending. Plans are already in with council and some minor demolition has begun.
Jamie says the building is in solid condition, bar significant work required on the front veranda.
Taking the lead from other venues the Keiths have visited, and methods of catering to different markets, they have opted in the Westminster for a layout that will welcome passers-by and guests while also making locals feel at home.
It will offer a wine bar, bistro and family area, and a separate space that can be closed off for private functions.
The original nine upstairs pub-style rooms will make way for seven well-appointed rooms with ensuites. Three ‘premium’ rooms face the balcony, enjoying western sun.
As they already own the adjacent lots, the north side will make way for an expanded beer garden, offering plenty of sunshine, as well as a kids’ play area and a pop-up bar.
The southern side also offers expansion opportunity, but at this point the couple are unsure whether to aim for further accommodation or residential development.
“We really want to make ourselves one of those places to stop over, where people can enjoy some King Valley wine, good food and 5-star accommodation,” says Jamie.
Temora is a town of nearly 5,000 people, around 400 kilometres south-west of Sydney.
Jamie and Sally, in their mid-30s, already have four kids of their own, aged three to seven. They see family as what they “are all about” and look forward to bringing it into the business.
While not from a pub background, Jamie says they’re from “a social background … too social at times” and the lifestyle suits their personalities.
“We liked the idea of starting where I grew up, and doing things within our skillset. Whether we build it up and go again or not, I don’t know yet.
“We’re just trying to build equity along the way, and throw it into things that really excite us while hopefully bringing us a profitable gain in the future as well.
“We’re just starting our little business, and may be a bit mad between the ears but I think you’ve got to be.”
They both started off with nothing but hard work through good and bad times Love of each other and family With a dream for there future and family They deserve every thing they have achieved and in the future Take care and God bless Xoxoxooxoxoxo