The Zorba Waterfront Motel, Batemans Bay, was first established in 1972 by Michael Diacomihalis. This much loved centrepiece of the Clyde Foreshore has become far more than a motel to the thousands of guests its doors have welcomed over the past fifty years. To them it feels like a home away from home, especially those of Greek origin.
For those familiar with the warm hospitality extended on any visit to Greece, that same welcoming hospitality was the hallmark of the Zorba. The Greek inspired pure white and coastal blues of the building and decor have guests feeling as if they were on holiday in Thera or Oia, overlooking the Aegean Sea, just metres from the water's edge.
In the past fifty years Batemans Bay has grown in popularity with new generations arriving for the first time. But whilst the Bay's accommodation options have expanded over the past decade with new hotels, and more and more short term accommodation, Zorbas is still at the heart of the town and in the heart of the generations who return each year to enjoy the familiarity and hospitably provided by the Diacomihalis family.
Celebrating Zorba Motel's 50th birthday this week was Michael Diacomihalis, recently returned from a long stint in Greece.
The Zorba Motel, built by Michael, was opened on December 18th 1972 and Michael returned to The Bay especially to celebrate this milestone with his family, friends and his current and original staff members.
Below: The 3 generations next to the monument Michael made with his bare hands in 1972. Left to right Michael, Barbara, Michael junior, Nicolas, Violetta and Justine Diacomihalis and Justine’s youngest boy Jack Donald.
Above: Justine Diacomihalis and Michael
