Earlier, according to Queensland Times, the days of the long-established family-run Ipswich hotel are over. The Ulster Hotel, built in 1910-1911 by architect H. E. Wyman, served the last pint of Ale last Christmas through the hands of great granddaughter Chloe. She is one one of the descendants of former Australian rugby league player Dan Dempsey.
Chloe's parents, Peter and Bev, tried to keep the hotel afloat after the disastrous 2011 flood devastated the interiors of the hotel. Daughter Chloe and teenage son Declan but their parents understand that they will soon have own lives to live. Mrs Johnston said, "Our daughter is midway through a law degree and our son is entering his final years of college, you can understand that it was all becoming too much."
It would be sad if no one would continue the wonderful prestige of the iconic Ulster Hotel, which according to Domain, is also famous for being featured in the Queensland government-sponsored TV commercial saluting dry drivers. So the family has half-heartedly decided to lease the business.
With their own careers on top of running the long-established family business, the decision to lease the business was the toughest to make for owners Peter and Beverley Johnston. The hotel's history made it tough for the family to decide on selling it. However leasing the business was still just as tough and emotional as a decision to make.
"This decision has been extremely tough on us," Mr Johnston said. He added, "We are not in an emotional place to sell it. It's not just a hotel to us; it is a family home with so much history."
About the business, he said, "It's a terrific opportunity for someone. Except stock, it has everything ready to go." Since the Ulster was listed, Mr. Johnson has received a number of inquiries. He expects that someone take over very soon.