Merivale grows inner west portfolio & adds another Victorian property

May 19, 2021
By Ioni Doherty

Within 24 hours of each other comes the news that Merivale has acquired Norton’s Irish Pub in Sydney’s Leichhardt for a reported $24 million and its second property in Victoria, The Lorne Hotel for a reported $38 million.

It is owner Justin Hemmes’ second investment south of the border following his purchase of Flinders Lane property, Tomasetti House in April.

Situated on the corner of Parramatta Road and Norton Street, Norton’s will to undergo a major refurbishment but will continue trading as normal once Merivale receive the keys to the pub next month.

The family-run business already owns Vic on the Park in Marrickville, Queens Hotel in Enmore and 3 Weeds in Rozelle which has undergone a major transformation and will open in spring, housing Italian eatery Totti’s.

Justin Hemmes said: “It is such a privilege to be part of Sydney’s vibrant Inner West; every suburb has a unique energy, and their local pubs play a special role in shaping their culture.”

More than a hundred years old, the iconic Lorne Hotel on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road will trade as normal over the summer.

Hemmes said: “The Lorne Hotel is an iconic venue in a truly spectacular location. It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know John and Paul Upham, who have been the proud custodians of the venue for the last eleven years; we feel honoured to continue their legacy and help usher the pub into the next phase of its incredible 145-year history.”

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