New Norcia pub closes without warning
The New Norcia Hotel in Western Australia has closed without warning leaving local residents of the small town shocked.
The closure of one of the State’s most well-known pubs has rocked the local community who have contacted Shire of Victoria Plains president Pauline Bantock for clarification.
“This kind of business decision is not a matter the local government has control over or is involved in, so I cannot make comment on behalf of the Shire,” Bantock said in a Facebook post.
“However, I personally understand the concern and hollow feeling amongst the community today.
“I personally know the hotel has been more than just a business and building to us locals. It’s been a place to gather.”
The pub is controlled by the Benedictine Board who have written to locals to clarify their decision.
“We regret to inform you that after long consideration the Board of the Benedictine Community has reached a decision to permanently close the New Norcia Hotel,” said Father John Herbert, Abbott/Director of the Benedictine community in New Norcia.
“As a community we understand the New Norcia Hotel has been of significance to generations of locals and the decision to close it was not taken lightly.”
Speaking to WAtoday Father John said the hotel was “not part of our strategic plan.”
“We’ve just decided to no longer have a hotel in New Norcia,” he said.
Sheridan Randall, 17th January 2020
