THE BYRON SHIRE ECHO Advertising & news enquiries: Mullumbimby 02 6684 1777 Byron Bay 02 6685 5222 Fax 02 6684 1719 editor@echo.net.au adcopy@echo.net.au Available early Tuesday at: http://www.echo.net.au VOLUME 22 #02 TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 2007 22,300 copies every week
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Bangalow farewells Frank Scarrabelotti
Left, Frank Scarrabelotti at the age of 108 in his garden shed. Above, the family farewells Frank at St Kevin’s Church, Bangalow. Photos Jeff Dawson
Frank Scarrabelotti, one of Bangalow’s much loved identities, died on Tuesday last week at the grand age of 109. Around 300 people turned out for the requiem mass last Friday at St Kevin’s Church, Bangalow. He was widely regarded as one of life’s true gentlemen. Born near Coraki on August 4, 1897, Frank was enthusiastically involved in the life of the commu-
nity into his last decade, from dairy farming to rugby union to music. In his 107th year he and his wife Nell led the parade for the annual Bangalow Billycart Derby, albeit in a car. When Bangalow Rugby Union Club played in their first grand final since the club was reformed in 2003, at the age of 108 Frank came down to the Bangalow Hotel to
meet the team and wish them good luck. Frank clearly remembered the Bangalow team that played in the final in 1910, and was able to identify most of the players by name and the positions they played. Ballina MP Don Page paid tribute to Mr Scarrabelotti in a press release: ‘Frank was highly respected and very well liked by all who knew continued on page 2
Van Haandels take the reins of iconic Beach Hotel Hans Lovejoy The long anticipated sale and handover of arguably Australia’s most popular pub happens this Thursday. New owners John and Lisa van Haandel will be taking the reins of the Beach Hotel and told The Echo that it will remain as is. ‘We plan to retain all staff and to maintain the culture of this unique institution, and we will endeavor to continue community support and goodwill.’
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According to current owners John and Delvene Cornell, they sought a buyer who would continue community donations, while also maintain the ethos of the iconic establishment. ‘It was not a matter of choosing the highest bidder but the best and fairest,’ they told The Echo. ‘Thanks to [architect] Ian Mckay who helped Delvene and I shape the dream. Thanks to Terry and the staff for doing us proud and thanks to all the happy customers.
‘The Beach Hotel supported many local good causes as a pub should. The new owners say that will continue – if they don’t keep their promise, see you at the Bruns.’ Beach Hotel manager Terry McCulloch told The Echo, ‘Our dealings [with John and Lisa van Haandel and staff], over a long period, would indicate a bright future for all concerned at the Beach Hotel and the community at large.’
John and Lisa van Haandel’s other business interests include The Prince of Wales and The Stokehouse in St Kilda in Melbourne, which also boast established reputations for high quality service, food and entertainment. With the sale price rumoured to be around $65 million – possibly the highest price ever paid in Australia for a pub – the national media’s interest will undoubtedly be re-ignited. More importantly however, is what the new proprie-
tor’s future plans are and how it will affect the community. Asked if this acquisition will mean the current generous donations to community groups and projects will continue, Mr van Haandel said, ‘This has been always our policy in St Kilda – to support the local community.’ Will the live entertainment roster continue as it has? ‘Yes, hopefully we will build on it with the support of the community. continued on page 2
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