Snapshot in Time: Reflecting on popular watering hole of yesteryear, The Mariner Motor Hotel

The Mariner Motor Hotel was an iconic presence on the Chapman Road foreshore for many years and a popular destination for many a thirsty local. On a Thursday afternoon in the 80s, workers would flock to the front bar for a beer and a rowdy chat with friends. Yellow paper pay packets were visible in work shirt pockets and those wearing t-shirts would keep cigarette packets tucked under the sleeve. There were two drive-through bottle shops in those days: the one on Chapman Road, and one on the opposite side of the hotel, along with a much-frequented TAB betting shop. In later years, the back bar was converted into Huckleberry’s Bar and Grill where customers would grill their steaks themselves. Previously, in the 50s and 60s, the Mariner Motor Hotel was known as the Marquis Hotel and was an even more popular destination for the youth of those days, with live music a regular feature. After the old Mariner building was demolished, the new Broadwater Resort was built, opening in 2009. The resort comprises 107 accommodation units, a swimming pool, a restaurant with beautiful ocean views and an underground wine cellar. Snapshots is an initiative of the Geraldton Regional Library. For more information, or to donate a historical photo or slide contact 9956 6659 or library@cgg.wa.gov.au