Heritage values enhanced by hotel

I am once again compelled to defend the Patonga Beach Hotel from claims by Vic Jefferies in the last edition of Peninsula News that there was a loss of part of the heritage of Patonga due in part to the change in the building and establishment of what has become a very popular family hotel.

Mr Jefferies lost an overwhelming vote against his position on our business many years ago.

It obviously still rankles in his memory but then again he did leave Patonga for the more humble shores of St Hubert's Island.

From his criticisms of anyone who drives a Mercedes or BMW I presume his neighbours don't have any of these luxuries in their beautiful and somewhat larger homes there.

Frankly, good luck to them. I can only imagine their preferred mode of transport is by one of the more expensive yachts or cruisers you see moored at their private jetties.

Just maybe they worked hard for these little luxuries?

It's a pity some people begrudge others any form of success.

Throughout the several heritage studies performed on the old general store that the Patonga Hotel replaced in large part it was noted time and again that the heritage significance of the store was not the physical structure but the social and historical significance of the site to the locals as its meeting place and the wider Gosford community.

These values have only been enhanced by the hotel providing great food and beverages in a magnificent natural setting overlooking Broken Bay.

Patonga has always prided itself on being a bastion of egalitarianism where the hardworking local fisherman or tradesmen share the same views, the same beer, the same food and share their stories of the day with the company of the retiree or whitecollar worker and welcomed visitors alike. I don't believe that this will ever change.

The facilities provided now attract the younger families of these many visitors and residents to what we all love about Patonga.

The majestic Norfolk Island Pines still tower and dominate the site and throughout the hotel is a great collection of historical photographs to enhance the character of the building and heritage feel to it.

The greatest compliment I continue to receive is that the building looks like it has been there forever. There is not a day that goes past when any casual observer could not but notice the many photographs being taken of the whole development.

It has been a wonderful achievement and an asset to our village we are happy to share with all.

By the way - the old bloke on the bike drinks the odd chardonnay and fishes for squid on the wharf.

Robert Osborne Patonga