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MEDIA COVERAGE

Humble start for vibrant complex

One of Mount Gambier’s most unique and historical buildings - the Oatmill Complex - was built in 1857 and was the first flour mill in Commercial Street.

Today the building is a vibrant retail and cafe complex, boasting a cinema, two restaurants and a functions centre.

It is one of the city’s most prominent entertainment strips.

While the tenants live harmoniously within the building, the property owners have been subjected to strict development rules because of its heritage protection.

It is understood none of the internal woodwork can be touched throughout the buildings.

The building has had a rich history since it became a significant structure on Mount Gambier’s landscape.

While the flour mill opened in 1857, it closed in 1866 before enterprising Welshman Thomas Williams built his steam driven mills in Mount Gambier - the first of four in the city.

The building cost 1000 pounds and the mill was capable of storing 15,000 bushles of wheat.

Within two years of the expansion, the business was sold and new efficient roller machinery significantly increased the size of the flour mill.

This meant the original mill stones were discarded.

In 1901, a three storey eastern extension was added. But in 1951 the welll-known commodity, Blue Lake Oats, began to be produced at the site.

In 1978, the commercial mills were sold and the flour milling machinery destroyed.

The oat milling operation continued until it was transferred to Bordertown.

After this time, the complex remianed empty, gathered dust and became a target for vandals.

It even narrowly escaped demolition to make way for a carpark.

But Mount Gambier builder Vince Verace revitalised the historic building in 1996 when he bought the complex, bringing with it a grand vision for its future.

Well-known Italian venue Cafe Belgiorno began operation about 12 years ago, along with the Tearooms.

The pool hall was opened in 1996 and now operates as Alexanders Bar and Functions, while the Longhorn Chargrill was opened in 1998 and is now Bullfrogs.

Meanwhile, The Oatmill Cinema has just celebrated its 10th anniversary.

The entire complex was sold last month to a local buyer.

Mount Gambier Heritage Committee helped prepare this story.

The Oatmill during its early days of operation. Photo courtesy of Mount Gambier Public Library.