Outgoing owners of Namoi Hotel thank ‘fantastic’ Narrabri community

The historic Namoi Hotel has started a new chapter in its long existence in Narrabri, with the pub officially changing hands earlier this week.

Outgoing owners Vince and Wendy Weakley handed over the keys to the business to new licensee and general manager Jeff Fisher on Tuesday, ready for Mr Fisher to officially take the reins of the hotel on Wednesday.

Mrs Weakley and her husband have taken pride in running the venue after purchasing it in 2005.

The couple purchased the hotel with business partners, the late Peter Manton and John Hindman. Mr Manton’s portion of the business was left to his sons, Tim and Todd.

Prior to running the Namoi Hotel, the couple spent five years at the Commercial Hotel (now the Crossroads). Mr and Mrs Weakley are working out the details of the next chapter of their life, however, they are adamant it will include Narrabri.

“All of our family is here. Our grandchildren are here,” Mrs Weakley said.

Reflecting on their long tenure at the Namoi Hotel, Mrs Weakley praised the many patrons who have supported their business.

“The community has been fantastic,” she said.

Mr and Mrs Weakley have acted as custodians of the venue which has enjoyed a long and rich history in Narrabri.

The pub has been a feature of Maitland Street in the 108 years the present brick building has formed part of the streetscape.