Historical revamp slated for pub

One of the oldest pubs in Western Australia’s oldest town is ready to usher in a new era after changing hands last week.

David and Christine McLean have lived and breathed the Albany Hotel for the past 10 years but now, Neville Walton and Lexy Grover will givethe public house a new lease on life.

The McLeans became proprietors of the hotel on April 9, 2006 and took it in their stride to return the local watering hole to its former glory.

“It had really turned into a restaurant with a bar attached to it so we went back to a traditional pub, looking after the locals,” Mr McLean said.

“In that time we’ve lost the Esplanade, the London has gone to more a backpackers’ hotel and there are now four liquor licences at Middleton Beach.

“We’ve stuck to what we’ve done and it’s worked for us.”

According to Mr McLean, part of the Hotel was built in 1835. Mr Walton said the historical significance of the pub would be a focus during this new period of operation.

“We will promote the fact it’s (one of) the oldest pubs in Western Australia and really expand on the memorabilia that’s in the pub,” he said.

“The tourist bureau is being relocated right opposite the pub so we want to be the first port of call.

“It’s unique to the Aussie way of life, especially for the overseas visitors.”

Mr Walton said he was daunted, but excited for the new venture.

“We are not going to change too much, just obviously revamp and revise a bit, I suppose,” he said.

“The beauty about this pub is the clientele really enjoy coming here.

“Its like pouring a beer at your own house.”