Just a few words from the new licensee and owner. Who am I? My mother’s side of the family has a lifelong connection to the District, from Mumbannar to Henty. They are the Smith and Hoskins from Mumbannar, which over time by marriage expanded to include the McIntyre, Murphy, Hogan, Malseed and Firths.  | For me, Merino provides me with an opportunity to live the dream and make a contribution to the community. The Hotel and heritage Cinema are a community resource. Whether your preference is for a cup of tea and a book, or a thirst for a different kind of beverage then the Hotel and staff will provide you with a warm welcome. Yes, and Mick will still be behind the Bar.
It is my intention to source all services from the local District if available, but realistically I may have to go further afield to Casterton, Coleraine or Portland for some things.
The Cinema is the first project. Heritage theatre stalls have now been secured from the Western District and before long the Cinema will come to life once again.
I invite you to take the time to talk with me about how the Hotel can continue to serve its community.
In my view, you can never have too many good ideas.
Ian Whalley | THAT NAME! I will concede that Cinema Pure Merino Fandango is an odd name, but I believe an appropriate one.
A recent trip to Micky Bourke’s Koroit Hotel during the ‘Bool Racing Carnival reminded me of Baz Luhrmann’s (Director/Writer/Producer) connection to the District.
The Director of Strictly Ballroom, Romeo and Juliet and Moulin Rouge!, to name but three of his films, in collaboration with Felix Meagher, was commissioned back in 1987 to write a comic opera for the Port Fairy Folk Festival.
The result of their efforts was the hit Comic Opera, The Pure Merino Fandango.
Whilst on the subject of names, I think the Bar could be referred to by the old Merino name of, The Waterhole, and the Bistro could be referred to as ? ? ? ?
If you have any suggestions I’d be happy to hear them.
On the FOOTBALL-NETBALL front, the Merino Hotel offers a warm welcome to the teams of the SWDFNL |
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