Local buyers purchase historic 121-year-old P&O Hotel in Fremantle’s West End

31 May 2023

The 121-year-old P&O Hotel in Fremantle has sold to local hospitality owners and operators Adrian Fini and Nic Trimboli as they expand their presence in the city’s West End heritage precinct.

Located on the corner of High and Mouat Streets, the historic property was originally built in the 1830s as the Victoria Hotel then rebuilt in 1901 and renamed the P&O Hotel. It was most recently operated by Notre Dame University and is currently vacant. 

The two-storey, federation-style building occupies a 1,280sqm site and has 32 rooms, communal bathrooms, a rear courtyard, small bar areas, and a basement cellar. 

CBRE’s Ryan McGinnity and Chloe Mason managed the sale on behalf of several private owners, with the campaign generating over 130 enquiries from buyer groups looking to reinvigorate the heritage-listed property.

“The sale of the P&O Hotel continues the ongoing investor infatuation with Fremantle, and in particular the West End. Over the past six months, CBRE has sold $55 million worth of investments in the area.” Mr McGinnity said.

New owners Adrian Fini and Nic Trimboli, who also own the nearby Vin Populi restaurant, said their motivation for acquiring the property was their love of the building and its heritage coupled with their faith in the future of Fremantle’s historic West End.

Ms Mason added, “In the last three months, Fremantle has seen many hospitality openings including the new social darts phenomenon Flight Club and The Flaming Galah, Fremantle’s first dedicated LGBTQIA+ venue.”

“These venues, which offer a diverse mix of hospitality and entertainment, are crucial in driving visitation to the area and guaranteeing Fremantle’s future as a key West Australian tourist destination.”