KERANG’S historic Exchange Hotel is currently undergoing a complete refurbishment to give it a modern look and inviting atmosphere.
New owners Amita and Mickey Gill purchased the hotel at the end of April, and have been working to renovate the interior, which was in need of an upgrade.
The couple said the new design will maintain the “pristine glory of the premises” while providing a modern and relaxed environment for visitors to enjoy.
For the past five years the couple have run their own training institute in Melbourne with a strong focus on hospitality, which they hope will contribute to their success.
Project manager Arvinder Jabbal, who is overseeing the renovations, said the building has plenty of potential and once completed will provide more options for residents seeking a different dining experience.
“We’d like to see it come to life and people enjoy the facilities,” he said.
Mrs Gill has hand-picked modern furniture from a Balinese supplier to fit out the refurbished bar.
She said the hotel will add an eastern flair to its new menu, which will include authentic Indian, Thai and Balinese dishes whilst keeping the traditional Australian pub fare.
The kitchen will be fitted with new equipment, including a traditional tandoor oven, which is used to cook Indian breads and roast meats.
Mr Jabbal said the bar will maintain its sports theme and be fitted with “modern and classy” furniture.
He said wooden floorboards will replace the carpet in the bistro area, giving it an “old world charm” and provide a relaxed and warm atmosphere.
The renovations will include a coffee and wine lounge, whilst a breakfast menu will be incorporated.
The function room has been revamped and down the track they hope to host events, including live bands and entertainment.
Mr and Mrs Gill moved from the north of India to Australia five years ago.
They couple purchased an Appin South property more than 12 months ago and currently commute from Melbourne, where they run the Victorian Institute of Culinary Arts and Technology.
Mrs Gill said they had planned to open the facility in a regional area and decided to take the opportunity to utilise the two businesses which will complement each other.
“When we took a look at the premises we saw potential and ideally suited in opening an additional campus in a regional area,” Mrs Gills said.
VICAT is similar to a TAFE college and will offer student Diploma courses in Hospitality, Advanced Diploma in Information Technology and Diploma of Management.
The facility will also offer short courses, including Responsible Service of Alcohol.
When the hotel is not in use it will be used for students to undertake the practical component of their hospitality training.
Mr Gill said this will provide the best possible training grounds for the hospitality students.
Mrs Gill said the two new business ventures will also generate employment with local residents employed to manage the Exchange Hotel and new jobs opportunities available within the education institute.
“We want to offer quality training and education in the disciplines we have on our scope of registration and look at generating local employment in the area,” she said.
“We look forward to working with the local community and getting their feedback when we open up.”
The newly-renovated Exchange Hotel and learning institute are expected to be open by the end of the month.
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