Justin Hemmes, the renowned Sydney hospitality magnate, is set to unveil his latest venture, The Whale Inn, in the early months of 2026. Located in the picturesque town of Narooma on the NSW South Coast, the hotel marks nearly five years since Hemmes acquired the property.
Mr. Hemmes purchased the historic hotel in May 2021 for $3.95 million, as recorded by Cotality. Recently, he offered a sneak peek of the semi-completed renovations via his Instagram, revealing that the hotel will be rebranded as The Whale Narooma upon reopening.
Transformative Renovations and Vision
In a video shared on social media, Hemmes expressed his excitement about the transformation, highlighting the stunning view of the bay from the hotel.
“I think this will be one of the most special rooms on the east coast of Australia,”
he remarked, gesturing towards the scenic vista.
The Queen Chow, a Cantonese restaurant previously operating within the venue, has been temporarily closed for renovations. Merivale, Hemmes’ hospitality group, has confirmed plans for both The Whale Narooma and Queen Chow to reopen early next year, although specific dates remain undisclosed.
Social Spaces and New Amenities
During a tour of the hotel’s new facilities, Hemmes shared his vision of fostering a social environment where guests can connect. The renovations have uncovered a sunken lounge, which will be restored and equipped with a record player to enhance the ambiance.
“We want to encourage a very social environment here, so we want all the guests to meet each other and connect,”
Hemmes explained.
Additionally, the revamped hotel will boast a wellness center complete with an ice bath, sauna, and pool, aiming to offer a comprehensive relaxation experience for its guests.
Merivale’s Expanding Footprint
This development follows Hemmes’ strategic expansion beyond Sydney. Merivale currently operates 77 venues across New South Wales and five in Victoria, showcasing a robust growth trajectory. Hemmes has expressed his enthusiasm about integrating into the local business community in Narooma, where Merivale has already acquired several local institutions, including the Quarterdeck bar, Lynch’s Hotel, and The Inlet, a popular fish-and-chip takeaway.
“It has been an absolute privilege to spend so much time here over the past six years and becoming part of the local business community is enormously exciting,”
Hemmes stated, emphasizing his commitment to the area.
Challenges and Controversies
Meanwhile, Merivale has faced its share of controversies. In November 2024, the group agreed to a $19 million settlement with former employees over claims of underpayment. Despite these challenges, Merivale establishments continue to attract patrons, particularly in Sydney, underscoring the brand’s resilience and appeal.
The move represents a significant step in Hemmes’ broader strategy to diversify and strengthen Merivale’s presence in regional areas, potentially setting a precedent for other hospitality ventures looking to expand beyond metropolitan hubs.
Looking Ahead
As The Whale Narooma prepares to open its doors, anticipation builds among locals and potential visitors alike. The project not only promises to enhance Narooma’s hospitality offerings but also aims to contribute positively to the local economy by attracting tourism and creating jobs.
With the opening slated for early 2026, Hemmes and his team are poised to deliver a unique hospitality experience that blends luxury with local charm, setting a new standard for regional accommodations on the NSW South Coast.
