Sold: New Entrant Unlocks Northern Rivers Treasure — Exchange Hotel, Kyogle

Leading national brokerage firm HTL Property is pleased to announce the successful sale of The Exchange Hotel in Kyogle, on behalf of Ashton Waugh and his highly respected hospitality group, Watering Hole Hotels.

The property was marketed exclusively by HTL Property Agents Ben Kennedy and Xavier Plunkett; and generated significant interest from both local and interstate buyers. The campaign drew six formal Expressions of Interest (EOIs) and achieved a successful sale within an accelerated timeline.

Importantly, the Exchange Hotel was acquired by a new entrant to the hospitality industry, highlighting the continued confidence in regional markets; and the appeal of hotel investments in tightly held areas with long- term growth potential.

“With multiple income streams, strong annual revenues of approximately $1.7 million, and development potential, the Exchange Hotel stood out as a compelling opportunity for both seasoned operators and first- time publicans” advised HTL Property’s Ben Kennedy. “We’re thrilled to see this historic asset move into the hands of a motivated new operator, one ready to bring fresh energy and ideas to the business” Kennedy added.

The hotel occupies a prominent 2,250sqm* corner site in the heart of Kyogle’s CBD, spread across three titles, including 1,600sqm* of undeveloped land. It features a fully operational pub with a bistro, commercial kitchen, public bar, 20 pub-style accommodation rooms, a well-patronised beer garden, and three fully leased commercial tenancies generating ~$35,000 p.a. in passive income.

“This result reflects not only the quality of the asset but also the strength of Kyogle as a regional centre. Its socio-economic fundamentals — from a stable and growing population to its strategic position near Byron Bay — make it highly attractive to investors seeking both income and lifestyle alignment” commented HTL Property’s Xavier Plunkett.

Kyogle is situated in the picturesque Northern Rivers region of NSW, approximately 90 minutes from the Gold Coast and less than an hour from Byron Bay. While traditionally known as a strong agricultural hub, the region is evolving. The local economy remains anchored by cattle grazing and timber milling, but is increasingly supported by tourism, lifestyle migration, and a shift toward organic and regenerative agriculture.

The Kyogle LGA supports a growing population of approximately 9,500 residents, with the area benefitting from the broader “tree change” trend that has seen city dwellers relocate to more affordable, lifestyle-rich rural communities. This has helped drive consistent capital growth in both residential and commercial property, with agricultural land values in the region increasing by an impressive 19.1% p.a. over the past five years.

“The appeal of Kyogle lies in its mix of economic resilience, lifestyle appeal, and proximity to key Northern Rivers destinations,” Kennedy added. “This sale highlights a growing appetite for well-positioned regional hospitality assets — particularly among new market entrants who are looking to capitalise on strong local demand and emerging tourism trends.”

HTL Property congratulates both the Vendor and the incoming purchaser on a successful transaction and is proud to have delivered a targeted campaign on behalf of our esteemed repeat client, Watering Hole Hotels.

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