ABOUT
Welcome to CIRCA 1936, a captivating boutique hotel seamlessly blending
the elegance of 1930s art deco architecture with contemporary elements. Nestled in the heart of Corowa, the historic "birthplace of Australian Federation" our hotel exudes a timeless charm that pays homage to the past while embracing the comforts of today.
Once the guardian of the riches reaped from the region's agricultural harvests, the former Rural Bank of NSW now stands as a symbolic reminder of Corowa's storied past. Within these walls, we proudly uphold and celebrate the rich and vibrant history of this Australian rural town.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU "TO JOIN US FOR A MOMENT AT CIRCA 1936".
MEET NELCI
CIRCA 1936 MANAGER
Nelci is the Manager at CIRCA 1936, bringing warmth, care, and a deep appreciation for thoughtful hospitality. Trusted by CIRCA’s owner, John Crothers, she creates an environment where guests feel genuinely welcomed, relaxed, and at home, with a keen eye for detail and intuitive service.
Originally from Indonesia, Nelci brings an international perspective shaped by formal education in Hotel and Travel, Events-Tourism and Hospitality, English Courses and bartending certification, along with experience in five-star hotels. Her professional journey also includes building and leading multiple successful businesses — from wedding planning and event coordination to bespoke bridal fashion design, spa and beauty salons, and men’s and women’s fashion — collaborating with corporate partners and trusted vendors for events while managing teams of over 20 staff.
After spending over eight years creating celebrations for couples around the world, Nelci relocated to Corowa in 2020, where she continues to bring the same level of care, creativity, and organisation to every guest experience at CIRCA 1936, alongside rebuilding and growing her own business within the local community.
Creativity is at the heart of everything Nelci does. Nelci loves travelling, painting, calligraphy, floral arranging, and fashion design, and enjoys hosting intimate dinner parties inspired by her love of gourmet cuisine. Her musical tastes include classical, opera, and jazz, and she continues to nurture her passion for languages, currently learning more than five. In her downtime, she enjoys a relaxed game of golf purely for pleasure.
On her free days, Nelci treasures time with her little family, enjoying simple moments and creating joyful memories together.
With her calm presence, refined eye for detail, and genuine love for people, Nelci ensures every visit and stay at CIRCA 1936 is personal, graceful, and truly memorable.
Nelci brings her own thoughtful, personal approach to ensuring every stay is more than accommodation, it’s an experience shaped by the five senses.
It’s this attention to detail that helps CIRCA 1936 remain one of the Top 10 Hotels in New South Wales, and a place guests return to, time and again.
Sight
Glimpse the heritage architecture, warm timber floors, petrified wood, elegant furnishings, and soft, inviting lighting that creates a timeless yet luxurious atmosphere.
Touch
Feel the texture of handcrafted furniture, the smoothness of restored surfaces, and the warmth of cozy rugs and soft cushions that invite you to relax.
Taste
Enjoy the delicate flavours of locally sourced treats, fresh pastries, or a perfectly paired wine or muscats, indulgence with a touch of heritage.
Hearing
Hear the gentle music and creak of original floorboards, the quiet murmur of conversations, and the subtle sounds of Corowa’s streets outside, a peaceful harmony of past and present.
Smell
Breathe in the comforting CIRCA scent, mingled with candles, fresh flowers, and luxurious linens, a welcoming aroma that feels like home.
As you explore our boutique hotel, you'll be charmed by the architectural features inspired by the golden age of the 1930s. Art deco decor tastefully merges with modern amenities, providing a harmonious ambiance that is both nostalgic and luxuriously comfortable. The captivating stained-glass windows, influenced by the creativity and vision of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, bathe our spaces in a warm, colourful glow, adding an extra layer of timeless elegance to your experience.
Beyond our walls lies the picturesque region of Rutherglen and Corowa, beckoning you to discover its wonders. Immerse yourself in the stunning countryside, where time seems to stand still, and experience the warm hospitality and world-renowned wines that have made this area a hidden gem in the heart of Australia.
And speaking of local treasures, don't miss the opportunity to savour the exquisite Whisky offerings that come from the rich pastures of the region and the pristine waters of the mighty Murray River. The river's embrace adds to the allure of the whisky-making process, infusing the spirits with the essence of this enchanting landscape. The river's influence extends to the local Whisky distilleries, creating a unique and delightful experience for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a nostalgic trip through time, or an adventure-filled retreat, CIRCA 1936 serves as your idyllic base to explore the wonders of Rutherglen, Corowa, and the enchanting Murray River. Our passion for providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable memories is evident in every detail, ensuring your stay with us is nothing short of extraordinary.
Come and experience the harmonious blend of history and modernity that defines our boutique hotel, where the stories of yesteryears seamlessly coexist with the excitement of today. We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you and create a timeless experience that will stay with you long after your departure.
CIRCA 1928
It took far too long for the former Commonwealth Bank building in Dean Street, Albury - with its guardian like Ionic columns - to discover its true purpose as CIRCA 1928. Now some 94 years after it was built, CIRCA 1928 "fits like hand in glove" within the building that is a landmark on the tree lined “Paris end” of regional Australia’s most stylish city. CIRCA 1928 is the culmination of an eight year evolution for CIRCA Hotels that has brought about a glimpse of luxury hotel accommodation in regional Australia.
The exhaustive basement to ceiling restoration by Kitabisa Design, has instilled the whole property with a unique ambience that is reflected throughout the commodious hotel suites, the Kitabisa retail area and the CIRCA day spa.
At CIRCA 1928, we go beyond just providing unique accommodation with inclusions such as a health oriented breakfast, in suite mini bar, an evening night-cap, Hunter Lab bathroom amenities, on site parking with electric vehicle fast charging* and a host of other benefits. We strive to ensure that every single guest leaves with an overwhelming sense of having experienced not just everything that they envisaged prior to arriving at CIRCA, but having experienced a special moment, unique to them.
19TH CENTURY SERVICE
20TH CENTURY STYLE
21ST CENTURY FACILITIES
CONTACT US
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