CANUNGRA Motel has reopened with a fresh new look after extensive renovations by owner Tony Pennisi.
The motel closed in August 2021 but reopened last month under a new name, Village Inn, with a new facade and ten freshly renovated guest rooms.
With renovations taking place over the past two years, numerous locals turned out to celebrate the reopening, catered by VK Everyday Cafe in Beaudesert and with local wines by O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards.
Tony thanked his team for the work they have put into the renovations and into reopening the motel.
“I’m proud of what we have achieved here, it’s been quite a journey,” he said.
“We have had some people stay already and our reviews have been absolutely fantastic.”
True to his ethos of supporting other local businesses, some of the furnishings for the rooms were sourced locally, including the cushions which were purchased from My Country Escape.
Tony celebrated the event with his two daughters, Marina and Carmen and his grandson Nicholas, who he thanked for their support.
A busy real estate agent in his ‘other life’, Tony thanked his staff for their support.
“They’ve had to cover for me while I’ve been here doing things.”
His heart is in the town
“I love Canungra. Canungra is an amazing little place,” he said.
“I’ve met some amazing people. I’ve met more people here today.
“It will very soon be my home permanently so unfortunately you are going to see more of me,” he joked.
The Village Inn will also feature a vintage vinyl record store (a passion of Tony’s), Scenic Rim Music Cavern, located next to the accommodation building.
The record store will be run by Tony’s friend and fellow vinyl collector, Terry Newmann and is set to open on Friday December 6 to coincide with the Canungra Christmas Markets on that date.
“We have a wonderful association with lots of people who sell vinyl,” said Tony.
“We think it will bring a lot of people to town.”
