From real estate to pub owner
ONCE a month for the past four years, Michael and Annie Keddy have stopped into the Maryvale Crown Hotel for lunch when travelling from their home on North Stradbroke Island to Tenterfield.
They fell in love with the country atmosphere, great food and historical building, so much so that Mr Keddy came out of retirement to buy the pub.
Mr Keddy sold his Ray White franchise and went into temporary retirement two years ago, waiting for the opportunity to try out a new venture.
Owning a pub had always been his dream, and when one of his favourite watering holes was put up for sale he couldn’t pass up the opportunity.
The “absolute opposite” role from what he is used to, Mr Keddy said the pair was eager to buy a business they could both be involved in.
“It’s a bit daunting, but we’re getting there and learning quickly and overcoming obstacles,” he said.
The historic pub is already getting a spruce up, with a new sitting room and library decorated with paintings and antiques.
Mrs Keddy said she was excited to explore her creative side.
“I’ve always been a frustrated decorator, so (I like) putting my stamp on changes.
“Already there’s a new sitting area that particularly the women are flocking to for a glass of champagne.”
Mrs Keddy said locals had embraced the change in ownership, with people offering to drop off local produce, wash dishes and generally lend a hand.