Handsome Freemantle landmark the P&O Hotel has been sold to the expanding partnership of Adrian Fini and Nic Trimboli.
A hotel was originally built on the corner site in the 1830s, named the Crown and Thistle. In the 1870s this was replaced by the Victoria Hotel, then in 1901 another new, Federation-style two-storey structure was built, dubbed the P&O Hotel.
Occupying a 1,280sqm site, it counts small bar areas, a basement cellar, rear courtyard, and upstairs 32 pub-style rooms with communal facilities.
The heritage-listed property underwent restoration in 2002, although many have lamented that its original clock tower was not replaced.
Two decades later, it sold in 2021 to a company thought to be owned by mining magnate Andrew Forrest. Most recently operated by Notre Dame University, it was being sold as vacant.
Fremantle continues to grow its hospitality scene, recent openings including social darts venue Flight Club, and the town’s first loud and proud LGBTQ venue, The Flaming Galah.
Fini and Trimboli were the names behind the launching of WA craft beer heroes Little Creatures. They already operate popular local restaurant Vin Populi, only a block down High Street, and are understood to have been looking to expand their portfolio.
Beyond their appreciation for the heritage building and its history, they were motivated by faith in the future of Fremantle’s historic West End.
A campaign on behalf of the private owners through CBRE’s Ryan McGinnity and Chloe Mason reportedly generated more than 130 enquiries.
“The sale of the P&O Hotel continues the ongoing investor infatuation with Fremantle, and in particular the West End,” offers McGinnity.
