After years of neglect the historic Katanning Flour Mill opens its doors today as a luxury hotel. Sold to The Dome Group by the Shire of Katanning, for just $1, the property now hosts a luxury hotel and a Dome Cafe.
According to an article by Journalist, Kent Acott in PerthNow, "The project is the brainchild of Nigel Oakey, chief executive of the Dome cafe group — one of WA’s most successful business chains.
After the $1 purchase, Mr Oakey spent “considerably more” than the $4 million he had budgeted to restore the 127-year-old building. It was money well spent. He is pleased with the end result, which provides a unique accommodation option for visitors."
Built in 1891, by agriculturist and politician, Frederick Henry Piesse, the mill operated until 1977, but after a short time as a visitor centre, closed and became run down. It has now been restored to its former glory with much of the heritage character retained in the luxury hotel and cafe.
The new hotel is an excellent addition to this busy regional town's tourism offering.