Capping more than six decades and multiple generations, the Quagliotto family has sold its beloved Royal Hotel in Ingham to dedicated local operators.
The Royal was established in 1883 in the town centre of Ingham, roughly 110 kilometres north of Townsville in what is a prime tourism region, close to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, Hinchinbrook Island and Australia’s highest single-drop waterfall, Wallaman Falls.
The pub was built and opened by James and Mary Shewcroft, who ran it until 1902. In 1939 it was acquired by Theresa Mullins, who also operated it for around 20 years before selling in 1959 to Gabri and Pina Quagliotto. The couple had previously run the nearby Noorla Hotel for a few years.
Offering a public bar, bistro, gaming room, function room, beer garden and 16 accommodation rooms, it has earned a reputation for great food and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The family has strived to cater to guests, winning ‘Best Wedding Venue – Boutique Hotel’ at the Australian Wedding Awards across multiple years, and becoming a local favourite for social gatherings, live entertainment and events.
In time Gabri and Pina’s sons Alan and Dennis assumed operations; over the years an impressive five generations of the family have worked in the hotel.
This marks the end of an era for Alan and Sharyn Quagliotto, who have been at the helm for decades, and the decision to sell was not easy.
Stepping in to fill the shoes is Queensland group Waymark Hotels, which holds a half-dozen pubs in the sunny state, including Lees Hotel, established in 1875 and made famous a century later by Slim Dusty as the Pub With No Beer.
The Royal has benefited from consistent trade via locals, tourists and adventure seekers, and the new owners are said to be eager to uphold its legacy while introducing fresh ideas, set to explore future potential through a renovation and additional amenities.
Sale of the pub was through an off-market EOI process, conducted by Savills Australia and New Zealand’s Kath Brassington and Joseph Ganim.
“As the Quagliotto family farewells their 65-year legacy at the Royal Hotel, they express deep gratitude to the patrons, staff and community who made it special,” offers Ganim.
“The hotel’s future remains bright, blending tradition with innovation while preserving its authentic Queensland pub experience.”
