Sydney hospitality magnate Justin Hemmes is preparing to unveil the multi-million dollar transformation of a beloved beachside hotel on the New South Wales South Coast, with The Whale Inn in Narooma slated to open in the early months of 2026.
A Coastal Transformation Five Years in the Making
The project marks the culmination of a journey that began in May 2021, when Hemmes' company Merivale purchased the property for $3.95 million. In a recent Instagram reel, Hemmes offered a glimpse of the semi-completed renovations, confirming the venue will be renamed The Whale Narooma upon its reopening.
"I think this will be one of the most special rooms on the east coast of Australia," Hemmes said in the video, gesturing towards the stunning bay views from inside the building. The Cantonese restaurant Queen Chow, which Merivale had been operating at the site, has been closed for the refurbishment but is also scheduled to reopen early this year.
Rediscovering History and Fostering Community
During his tour, Hemmes emphasised a vision for a social atmosphere. "We want to encourage a very social environment here, so we want all the guests to meet each other and connect," he explained. A key discovery during the works was a sunken lounge area, which the team plans to restore and equip with a record player to enhance the ambience.
"I think it's going to be the best spot in the house," Hemmes remarked. The revamped hotel will also feature a comprehensive wellness centre, complete with an ice bath, sauna, and pool.
Expanding an Empire Beyond Sydney
Narooma represents Hemmes' first major commercial foray outside of Sydney. He initially bought a house in the coastal town in 2015, with his business acquisitions following six years later. This move was part of a broader trend of high-profile restaurateurs investing in regional areas during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To date, Merivale has taken over three other local Narooma institutions: the Quarterdeck bar, Lynch's Hotel, and a fish-and-chip shop called The Inlet. The expansion sparked local concerns about the town becoming 'the next Noosa', a claim Hemmes has consistently denied.
"Narooma has become my second home and the backdrop to many of my happiest memories with my family," Hemmes said in a past statement. "It has been an absolute privilege to spend so much time here... and becoming part of the local business community is enormously exciting."
The reopening occurs against a backdrop of continued patronage for Merivale venues, despite the group agreeing to a $19 million settlement in November 2024 with former employees over underpayment claims. The company remains tight-lipped on an exact opening date but confirms both The Whale Narooma and Queen Chow will welcome guests early in the new year.
