Billabong Wangaratta

The Pinsent began its life in 1850 in the Victorian town of Wangaratta, where it was initially constructed as the first private hospital in the district by Dr Gemmell. It was the first brick building in the township. In 1851 the property was acquired by John Crisp who converted it to a hotel, named 'The Royal'. In the years leading up to 1917, it changed hands many times until Mrs Anne Edith Pinsent took over and aimed at the establishment being one of the finest in the country. It was in 1923 that she changed the name to the 'Pinsent' and set about making the hotel the 'place to stay' in Wangaratta. This was sealed when the notorious gangster 'Squizzy Taylor' pictured to the right, stayed the night. He never stayed in anything less than the top hotel in any town. Mrs Pinsent then sold the hotel in 1934. The hotel is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner trade in both the bistro and bar. Known for the best steaks in town, you'll have to drop in and taste them for yourself!