The Pelican Hotel in Inglewood is set for an overhaul – that’s if the potential new owners can raise enough money to buy it.
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Paul Kooperman and his family are looking to purchase the old pub and turn it into a community hub and artistic retreat.
But the Koopermans are hoping the public can help make their dream a reality.
The family has set up a GoFundMe page online and are encouraging locals to pitch in and receive a service in return.
“We really love this place and can’t afford to spend months saving for it,” Mr Kooperman said.
“We want to be proactive rather than live in fear that someone else will buy it.
“We’re not asking for a handout. We will give an experience that is to the value of what people provide.”
Those who donate $20 to the cause can experience an afternoon tea at the 150-year-old venue, $100 equals a night’s accommodation, while $1000 will result in a room in the hotel being named after you plus two night’s accommodation.
Mr Kooperman currently runs a youth group at the Macedon Ranges and Hepburn Shire called The Field Trip, which he said he would bring to the Inglewood establishment.
“We feel that by purchasing this place, it will not only have impact on our lives but also the lives of people in the community,” he said.
Mr Kooperman participated in the Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program in 2016 and said he wants to use the experience to help “service the community”.
“Many of my colleagues from that program live in the area and I’m looking forward to working with them to build stronger communities in the region,” he said.
Those who would like to contribute to the GoFundMe page can do so here.
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