BHP has emerged as the buyer of Port Hedland’s notorious Pier Hotel for an undisclosed sum.
BHP has emerged as the buyer of Port Hedland’s notorious Pier Hotel for an undisclosed sum.
The mining giant confirmed to Business News it had acquired the 5,700-square metre site which also houses 20 motel rooms and a residence across the road from the Port of Port Hedland.
The pub was closed by its former owner Lynne Taylor in June this year and will not be reopened by BHP for the foreseeable future.
BHP is understood to be waiting further direction from the state government on plans for the Hedland Maritime Precinct, which the pub sits inside, before deciding on the future of the property.
Most residents of the area have been voluntarily bought out of their homes due to excessive dust levels coming from the megaport on their doorstep.
The precinct is now under state government control, meaning developments do not need local government approval.
The Pier is among the most infamous pubs in WA, notably as the holder of the dubious record for the most stabbings in one night, a mark which appears to be more urban legend than fact.
Local patrons flocked to the pub for years, often singing Semisonic’s hit Closing Time as last drinks were poured every night.
First established in the 1890s, its current buildings were erected in the 1960’s and 70’s.
Ms Taylor bought the pub in 2007 for $2.7 million and has listed it for sale several times over the past decade, including for $8.75 million in 2019.
In 2011, the pub was named one of the most violent night spots in the state by WA Police.
In recent times the pub became a hive of anti-vaxxer misinformation, with its former owner going to the extreme measure of shutting the pub due to the vaccine mandate.
The Pier is the second watering hole in Port Hedland purchased by BHP.
In 2018 it bought the neighbouring Esplanade Hotel for $15 million and embarked on a major renovation in 2021 which is yet to be completed.
