Passing on the torch – Deb and Santo Scaglione retire from the Clare Hotel

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The Scagliones have been well-known in the South Australian hotel industry for nearly 40 years.

The husband-and-wife team have worked together since 1988, but the time has come to retire and pass the torch of their beloved Clare Hotel to a new owner, Ben Kerslake, who will continue to be supported by their daughter, Aimee Wilson, and the AHA|SA.

We caught up with the Scagliones, who shared their passion for building a legacy on family values and taking this community asset in Clare to new heights in the future!

“We’ve been here for just over 21 years here in Clare, and it’s been a team effort," Santo said.

“Prior to owning the Clare Hotel, we were at the Esplanade Brighton for 13 years, and prior to that, we were from the Southeast of the state.

“We meet people every day. Everybody’s different, and that’s the biggest thing we’ll miss. It’s been a good pub for us and I’m sure it will continue providing a service to the Clare community."

“We’ve been there for each other and transitioning into retirement, we’ll be focusing on our accommodation villas to support us,” said Deb.

“I’m looking forward to spending a lot more time with the family as well. We’ve got a great bunch of grandkids we love to spend time with.”

Under the new ownership of Ben and management of Aimee, the hotel will continue to support the community.

“We’ve been passionate about supporting local wineries, clubs, and community events,” Deb said.

Aimee added, “We’re in talks at the moment with Clare High School to work with students who are interested in a hospitality apprenticeship. It’s about looking at a longterm vision for the region and career pathways as well.”

Speaking about the AHA|SA, Santo said "the association's been great for us. I’ve had the pleasure of serving on the Council for about 12 years. It’s good to have that backing, the services and advice they provide – they’re only a phone call away.”

Santo recognises the industry isn’t without its challenges. “Workplace regulations and licensing are changing all the time. The litigation our industry has to go through these days does make it hard. As publicans, we’re responsible for the safety of patrons and our staff. That’s where that support has factored into our membership over many years,” said Santo.

“I’d like to give a big thank you to the staff and Clare community for their support, and good luck to Ben. We wish him all the best!”

Aimee said, “Mum and dad have been my hero’s. They’ve always taught me that it doesn’t matter what other people are doing, just focus on what you’re doing and do it well. If something needs to be done, get it done.”

“I’ve also taken dad’s advice with me wherever I’ve been – be happy in life and surround yourself with people you love and want to spend time with.

“We’d really like to thank mum and dad. I’ve been in the hospitality industry for 18 years, since I was allowed to serve behind the bar, and I’ve waited only until the last four years to come and work with mum and dad. One of my big regrets is not coming sooner because I have loved every minute, don’t tell them that! We’ve become closer as a family as well.”

“I wish them all the best in their semi-retirement. Every happiness, they’ve deserved absolutely everything that they’ve got,” Aimee said.

New owner, Ben Kerslake, will stay on as an AHA|SA member. “I would personally like to thank and congratulate Deb and Scaggs on such a successful career in the hotel industry and I am honoured to be continuing what they have created with the Clare Hotel," he said.

“Our plans for the future of the hotel are really to continue on the path that they set by being a hub for the locals, with affordable meals but also maintaining quality and great friendly country service.

“We do have some positive plans in the future to create some new spaces but overall, we want to be the place where anyone can come in, relax and enjoy country hospitality and have a chat with staff and locals alike. We are excited to build our own legacy off the back of the success of Deb and Scaggs and look forward to the future of the Clare Hotel for years to come,” Ben said.

New owner Ben with manager, Aimee.