Swindle back at helm once again

Roebuck Bay Hotel stalwart Mike “Swindle” Windle is back at the helm of the Chinatown establishment, but only in a caretaker capacity.

Mr Windle had been working for owner Brian Coppin as a consultant since retiring more than 12 months ago as general manager — a position he held for 15 years.

But the veteran Broome businessman has returned twice in a year after the two previous general managers quit.

“Since I resigned a year or so ago, I was offered a job as a consultant and that suited me fine — a part-time job dealing with liquor licensing, police matters and other little things,” Mr Windle said.

Both of Mr Windle’s replacements lasted about seven months.

“So, I am back as the caretaker general manager until we find someone else,” Mr Windle said.

“I have got this consultancy (role) but I will be in the (new) position for as long as it takes. “There is a good job open there.”

Mr Windle said his recall was just like old times. “I had never really left,” he said.

“I have always been back and forward there.

“It is great and I love the people, who seemed to know I was back before I did.”

Mr Windle said that was how the town worked.

“I am not looking to make too many changes, we have just got to watch the expense and everything — like every other retail business.

“We have got to look after our bottom line. Our margins have been absolutely nothing to write home about.”

Mr Windle said Broome and other regional WA towns had been hit hard by cheap overseas holidays.

“Hopefully this tourist season will be a good one,” he said.