Matisse Beach Club has provided a popular new entertainment alternative in Scarborough since its opening earlier this year. Manager Gina Brand reflects on the venue and the future of Scarborough itself.
How’s Matisse Beach Club enjoyed it’s opening year so far?
We’re loving it. Autumn was a tough time to open for a Beach Club but we have still had a fantastic six months and have seen the business grow week on week. We are on the official countdown to summer and are looking forward to seeing the venue at its peak. The Beach Club concept is new to Perth and we are excited to be able to showcase the venue and offer Perth a unique experience. Our recently launched cabana packages which include premium bottle service have been well received and we also have some exciting events to announce in coming weeks! We are anticipating a very busy summer.
Has your clientele indicated to you that it was something that Scarborough was waiting for?
Definitely. The general feedback we have received is that Scarborough residents have previously suffered a lack of choice. There was some great businesses that have been trading at Scarborough for a long time, but options for food and beverage were limited. Matisse is a completely new and unique concept for Perth and as such doesn’t directly compete with neighbouring businesses. The more options that are available to residents, visitors and tourists, the more Scarborough will grow and become a buzzing hospitality precinct.
Do you feel that Scarborough is going through something of a rebirth?
There are many new businesses opening in long abandoned tenancies along The Esplanade including small bars, restaurants and cafes, all of which will go toward ensuring Scarborough is considered as an entertainment precinct in coming years. Scarborough has definitely missed out on the tourism market in previous years and has suffered a bad reputation from businesses that have long shut down. It is time to recognise that the Scarborough demographic is largely made up of professional people. The median house price is steadily increasing and the suburb needs to be able to provide hospitality options to suit the new Scarborough demographics lifestyle.
The State Govt have invested $30m and City of Stirling have invested $27.4 million to revitalise the beachfront – do you think we’ll see a whole new Scarborough?
We certainly hope so. There are a lot of ideas and plans being discussed for the area by both the State Government and the City of Stirling, all of which are exciting and will see Scarborough fulfil its potential as a tourist attraction and entertainment precinct. We are proud to be a part of the changes and actively support all new businesses opening in the area.
