once prosperous towns to their former glory, even further enhanced by Katanning joining the list of top tourist towns of the Hidden Treasures of the Great Southern recognised for their history, farming and agriculture. In the meantime and situated about halfway between Perth and Albany, Katanning quietly thrives with a population of 4,500 while catering well to travellers, especially those with RVs. Katanning Shire CEO Julian Murphy is energised by the prospect. “Dome is a wellestablished brand with a history of being a good product for the community and has a proven track record of creating hubs in other historic precincts,” he said. He is also impressed with the level of restorative detail, “They will retain the internal workings of the flour mill and it will be an experience to stay there.” Still structurally sound and in reasonable condition, the mill retains many of its original fixtures and fittings including its grain silos; guests will certainly know where they’re sleeping. Dome is no stranger to conserving WA’s history with 17 out of their 70 Australian Dome cafes currently housed in heritage-listed buildings. Quite apt when you consider Dome’s pioneering background, which started off with Canadian Patria Jefferies and co-founder Phil Sexton opening a single café in Cottesloe in the early 90s, offering a brew at the then controversial cost of $1.80 a cup. It’s hard to remember a time when Perth didn’t have a café culture, except for Italians sipping espressos at the Re Store while stocking up for the next family feast or at Northbridge’s Café Sport (now Little Willy’s). During a time where instant coffee reigned supreme, Dome was the first franchise chain of European-style cafés in Australia which then went onto to expand into Malaysia, Dubai, Indonesia, Singapore, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and the Maldives. It’s safe to say Dome was pivotal in Perth’s love affair with coffee, just as Starbucks paved the way in the US. There’s great comfort to be found in the consistency of Dome’s coffee. Each cup is made with hand-picked Arabica beans cultivated at a high altitude allowing the rich characteristics to develop slowly producing a complex flavour. For example, their signature espresso blend is sourced from five regions: Brazil for nutty notes, smoothness from New Guinea, the dark chocolate and caramel flavours of
It’s safe to say Dome was pivotal in Perth’s love affair with coffee, just as Starbucks paved the way in the US.
Costa Rica, Colombia for body and floral tones, and Sumatra for depth and savoury hints. With a clever business model emulating the coffee houses of Europe showcasing a bistro-style menu, rich colour schemes, domed ceilings and wooden flooring, Dome certainly understands the old adage of location, location, location. Combining Dome’s success with Katanning’s vision, it’s a winning blend. PL summer 2016 | PRIMOLIFE
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