ABOUT – UNEXPECTED TAS

Welcome to the historic Parattah Railway Hotel home of Unexpected Tas — a place where heritage, creativity, and the unexpected meet.

We are Kathrine (Katrina) Selmer Johansen, psychologist and artist, and David Napoli, retired cultural change management consultant, restauranteur and renovator extraordinaire!

In 2021, during the height of COVID, our long-held plans to move to Europe were suddenly derailed. Like everyone, we couldn’t leave the country. Around the same time, Kathrine faced a serious health crisis and was advised by her medical team to make significant lifestyle changes — less stress, a colder climate, and a slower pace. We both felt ready for a new adventure.

We headed to Tasmania — the only state we could travel to — and gave ourselves just nine days to find our dream property. On the verge of giving up, we stumbled upon a remarkable building: the Parattah Railway Hotel. It was love at first sight!

Was it practical? Not really. Was it exciting? Absolutely. With a mix of passion, perseverance, and investment beyond what we imagined, we’ve lovingly brought this beautiful old building back to life.

The name “Unexpected Tas” was inspired by the moment we first saw the property. We were driving through peaceful countryside east of Oatlands — sheep and deer farms either side — when unexpectedly, around a bend, this grand and unusual building appeared. It was completely out of character with the landscape, yet captivating.

We moved in January 2022, and after three and a half years of restoration, we’re proud to open the doors to a range of creative and welcoming experiences under one roof.

What we offer…

  • Accommodation

    Stay in a charming, fully self-contained 2-bedroom first-floor apartment with spa bath.
    Book via Airbnb, Booking.com, or directly with David on 0418 950 140.

    More info

  • Unexpected Gallery

    Artist-in-residence: Kathrine Selmer Johansen

    - Commissions available

    - Handwoven silk & cotton accessories

    - Exhibitions featuring local and visiting artists

    - Crafts, gifts, pre-loved clothing, curios

    - Artists’ retreats, workshops, and venue hire

    More info

  • Historic Venue

    Space approx. 124m²

    Available for hire for:

    - Small meetings and conferences

    - Weddings and ceremonies

    - Clubs and community groups

    - Music soirées and intimate concerts (baby grand piano)

    More info

  • Historic Site, Grounds & Props

    Available for:

    - Photography and film shoots

    - Cultural tours and events

    - Parties, markets, festivals

    - Self-contained mobile home stays

    More info