Justin Hemmes confirms purchase of much-loved Narooma motel

Narooma's much-loved Whale Inn and Restaurant is the latest venue to join Justin Hemmes' expanding portfolio of pubs and property

On Wednesday morning, the Merivale hospitality group boss announced he had acquired the far South Coast motor inn for an undisclosed amount. It is Hemmes' second venue purchase in laid-back Narooma after snapping up the Quarterdeck tiki bar in March.

"Narooma has become my second home and the backdrop to so many of my happiest memories with my family," said Hemmes, who also owns residential property in the area. "I think it is one of the most beautiful spots in the world."

In May, The Sydney Morning Herald reported Hemmes was rumoured to be in negotiations to purchase The Whale – Narooma's hotel and restaurant jewel – plus another venue in the holiday destination, yet to be named.

The Sydney-based billionaire has been on a $200 million shopping spree over the past six months, adding another five venues to Merivale's growing empire of more than 80 bars, pubs, restaurants and brands.

New acquisitions include the former site of Byron Bay backpacker boozer Cheeky Monkey's, Norton's Irish Pub in Leichhardt, the Bridge Street basement space where Fratelli Fresh once traded in the Sydney CBD, and Merivale's first two venues outside of NSW – the Lorne Hotel on Victoria's Great Ocean Road and Tomasetti House in Melbourne.

Hemmes is tight-lipped on future plans for The Whale Inn which currently features a cocktail lounge, 17 guestrooms, and a restaurant with views to Wagonga Inlet and the coastline. Merivale will receive the keys to four-star hotel this week; accommodation is set to remain open, while the restaurant will be closed until July while it undergoes a quick refresh.

The Whale was established 15 years ago by former president of the Narooma Chamber of Commerce Matthew Deveson and his wife, Jennifer Houghton-Deveson.

Well known and respected by Sapphire Coast locals, Matthew Deveson passed away in May after a battle with cancer. The Eurobodalla leader was recognised with a posthumous Order of Australia medal on Monday for service to the community of Narooma.

"Matt was a true gentleman – a man of great kindness and dignity who truly loved Narooma and the wonderful people who call it home," said Hemmes. "It is an honour for us to continue Matt and Jen's legacy".