Lina, one of the Finnish backpackers featured in the documentary “Hotel Coolgardie,” eventually left the hotel after completing her work stint there. The experience was challenging for her due to the harsh working conditions and the behavior of some patrons.
In the 2016 documentary “Hotel Coolgardie,” Lina, along with her friend Steph, undertakes a job at a remote pub in the Australian Outback to fulfill their visa requirements. The film portrays their experiences dealing with the isolation of the location, the demanding nature of the work, and the often crude and sexist behavior of the local clientele. The documentary highlights the cultural clash and the difficulties faced by temporary workers in such environments.
Throughout their time at the hotel, Lina and Steph are subjected to various uncomfortable situations, including unwanted advances and expectations to entertain the patrons beyond their bartending duties. The film does not shy away from showing the raw reality of their experience, which is at times both emotionally and physically taxing.
After completing the required duration of work, Lina and Steph leave the hotel. The documentary ends without providing a detailed follow-up on their lives post-Hotel Coolgardie. However, it is clear that the experience had a significant impact on them, serving as a stark reminder of the challenges that transient workers can face in remote areas. The film has been praised for its unflinching look at a slice of life in the Outback and the issues of sexism and exploitation that can arise in such settings.