Former Hotel Owner Critiques Demolition Plans for Hawea Landmark

The demolition of the historic Hawea Hotel has sparked strong feelings among past patrons and owners, particularly from Johnny Shea, who managed the establishment from 1999 to 2010. Shea expressed disappointment that the iconic building, a central gathering place for the community, is set to be demolished. He criticized current owner and property developer Matt Laming, suggesting that the focus has shifted from community needs to profit. “It is not about the community any more, it is about the mighty dollar,” Shea remarked.

Shea highlighted the emotional significance of the Hawea Hotel, which has served the community for over a century. “After 100 years, the whole purpose and memories that the Hawea Hotel has given people is basically going to be a thing of the past and just going to turn to dust,” he stated. He believes it would be a travesty if another hospitality venue does not replace the hotel at its current site.

Plans for Replacement and Community Sentiment

The Quartz Development Group intends to replace the Hawea Hotel with a new hotel and a commercial precinct on Capell Avenue. In a statement made last year, Laming described the existing structure as “no longer fit for purpose.” The proposed development promises a combination of visitor accommodation, private residences, hospitality, retail, and entertainment options, along with a premium 20-lot lakefront subdivision.

In response to inquiries about the timeline for the new project, Laming admitted, “we have no idea, it is ages away,” while emphasizing the planning and consenting processes that remain. He acknowledged the community’s attachment to the hotel but maintained that “it’s a business.” Nevertheless, Laming expressed a desire to celebrate the hotel’s centenary with local residents, including the family of original owner Claude Capell.

Capell, who originally moved from Balclutha, opened a fishing lodge at Lake Hawea in 1925, which later evolved into the hotel. The venue gained a liquor license in 1952, coinciding with the arrival of construction crews for a nearby dam. Notably, it was also the site of a visit from Prince Albert, Duke of York (later King George VI) in 1927.

Community Impact and Memories

Shea reflected on the hotel’s role in fostering community ties during his ownership, noting that it hosted numerous live music events. “We are probably the last period where it was a country hotel,” he said, emphasizing how the venue was a hub for social interaction. He recalled the global financial crisis in 2008 as one of the most challenging times for the business, yet he appreciated the community spirit that surrounded the hotel.

“Anyone who has lived here for a long time is disappointed but anyone who has just turned up and calls Hawea home, they probably don’t give a monkey’s a… about it, it is just a building,” Shea stated. Despite the impending demolition, he remains confident that the memories created within the hotel will endure. “We have lived here and put so much into it, the community has put so much into it, there are so many relationships born, there are weddings that have gone on there and so many memories to not have it,” he concluded.