Justin Hemmes buys The Whale Inn after Matthew Deveson loses tragic battle with cancer

Billionaire Justin Hemmes has bought yet another south coast business after the owner and much-loved local loses his battle with cancer.

Billionaire restaurateur Justin Hemmes has confirmed he has bought yet another business in the quiet south coast town of Narooma.

In March Mr Hemmes confirmed his company Merivale had purchased the Quarterdeck in Narooma, known as the south coast’s only Tiki bar.

The unique bar and restaurant was Mr Hemmes’s first hospitality venue purchase outside of Sydney.

Merivale confirmed on Wednesday the 48-year-old has purchased The Whale Inn, which he described as a boutique hotel and restaurant popular for it’s ocean views.

Restaurateur Justin Hemmes (left) with Senator Michaelia Cash and businessman Ryan Stokes at Parliament House Canberra in May. Picture: Jane Dempster

Locals Matthew Deveson and Jen Houghton-Deveson ran the inn for 15 years, until Mr Deveson, a former president of the Narooma Chamber of Commerce, tragically lost his 12 month battle with cancer in May.

“Matt was a true gentleman; a man of great kindness and dignity who truly loved Narooma and the wonderful people who call it home,” Mr Hemmes said.

“It is an honour for us to continue Matt and Jen’s legacy.”

Merivale announced the purchase of the Whale Motor Inn on Wednesday.

Mr Hemmes said he was drawn to the “hidden gem in the heart of the Eurobodalla” by its “breathtaking views of the inlet and beaches”.

The inn has seventeen individually-appointed rooms and suites, as well as a “laid-back” restaurant and bar, Mr Hemmes said.

“Narooma has become my second home and the backdrop to so many of my happiest memories with my family. I think it is one of the most beautiful spots in the world”, the heir to the Hemmes family fortune said.

Former owner Matthew Deveson lost his tragic battle with cancer in May. Picture: Narooma Rotary

Narooma Chanber of Commerce and Industry president Jenny Munro said the purchase is a “bitter sweet” moment following Mr Deveson’s death.

“I’m very happy it’s been bought by a person who will maximise the impact of the venue,” she said.

“It will be lovely for our wonderful visitors. It will bring a whole new group of holiday makers.

“This is like a silver lining after a horrible time we’ve had.

“With the bushfires, COVID and Matthew’s illness it was a terrible time.”

Dr Munro said Hemmes is on a “spending spree” in the town and word is he may have other venues in his sights.

She said his regional manager has also shown an interest in joining the chamber’s committee.

“I met Justin on the beach and he is very friendly, he was very charming,” she said.

Justin Hemmes now owns two Narooma venues. Picture: Darren Leigh Roberts

“We have the capacity to redevelop the town centre, so I’m hoping this is what will happen because at the moment we need to increase our capacity for visitors.”

Merivale said in a statement, Hemmes will receive the keys to the business this week.

“Accommodation will remain open, while the restaurant will close for a quick refresh, before opening again next month,” the company said.

“Refurbishment plans for the property will be announced in due course.”

Hemmes is estimated to be worth more than a billion dollars and operates more than 70 venues in 20 pubs and hotels across Sydney.

Not only is he a king of hospitality, but also real estate, reportedly owning a dozen residential properties.

His father John was not only best known for starting Merivale, the fashion business that brought the miniskirt to Australia, but also his love of real estate.

His investments in inner-city Sydney real estate saw him amass a family fortune of $12 million in the 1980s.