Bunbury’s iconic Trafalgars pub up for sale, more than 40 buyers wanting to take it on

For the first time in more than 20 years, Bunbury’s iconic Trafalgars Hotel is on the market.

Built in the mid-1800s, the historic tavern has been operating on Victoria Street in the heart of the city for more than 150 years.

But it was recently placed into receivership, with Ray White commercial selling agent Phil Zoiti appointed to its sale by receiving manager KordaMentha five weeks ago.

Forced to close in March due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is yet to reopen, but Mr Zoiti said it was not the end for the popular haunt, rather a “new beginning” for someone looking to take it on.

“You’ve got a well-positioned opportunity to acquire free-hold property with a tavern licence which has been continuously trading for more than 100 years,” he said.

Substantial money was spent on renovations 5-6 years ago. Downstairs you walk into a fully functioning tavern and can pretty much start pouring beers once the licence is transferred.

He said there had been “huge interest” in the popular watering hole, from Perth-based investors to keen locals looking to play their part in Bunbury’s history.

We’ve received more than 40 inquiries. There has been a strong level of interest, mainly from within WA.

Mr Zoiti — who has 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, both in sales and operations — said he had done a lot of work in regional WA with taverns, hotels and caravan parks, but opportunities like this were “few and far between”. With so much enthusiasm for its purchase, Mr Zoiti anticipated it would not be long before punters could once again sit at the live music venue.

“We’ll know by the end of the week (who the new owner will be),” he said.

“And hopefully it will open with a new operator within 30 days.”

Expressions of interest close at 5pm tonight.