Renovation plans for historic hotel

The Comiskey Group, based in the City of Moreton Bay, has released renovation plans for one of its newest venues.

In October last year, the Group bought The Imperial Hotel, Eumundi and accommodation HOLA, since renamed The Imperial Hotel Boutique Accommodation.

Stage one of the hotel renovation is underway focussing on the front bar, gaming room and TAB. It is expected to take about four months.

“We believe its going to breathe vitality and vibrance into the space, while honouring the hotel’s storied past,” Director David Comiskey said.

Stage two will start with the beer garden, bar, toilets, restaurant, kitchen area and kids' games room, which will be “one of the largest on the Sunshine Coast”.

Just across from Eumundi Markets, the hotel first opened in 1911 and the new owners are looking to “celebrate that history”.

Graphic glimpse of new-look hotel

“The Imperial Hotel is over 100 years old. It has changed owners, burnt down in 1926 and been reimagined numerous times,” Director Rob Comiskey said.

“But one thing has remained – it’s been a local favourite watering hole. As the new custodians of this incredible property, we want to keep it that way.”

Mr Comiskey said it will retain its ‘old school’ pub feel and there are plans to salute the hotel’s history by decorating walls with framed pictures of its past.

“We have historic photos of bullocks grazing outside the hotel and horses parked outside on dirt streets,” he said.

“The photos are really cool. We can’t wait to put them up! It’s an iconic hotel and there was no way we wouldn’t have recognised its unique heritage.

“Even our newly painted walls will be distressed to ensure the hotel doesn’t ‘look’ brand new and sparkly, we want it to have character in spades.”

Given the hotel’s "timeless" exterior, the renovation only extends to internal space. The entryway will see a slight upgrade but maintain its façade.

The Imperial Hotel Boutique Accommodation was renovated a couple of years before the acquisition and will not be refurbished.

Instead, it will get a new heated pool and magnesium spa, to open in about four weeks.

Comiskey Group opened The Doonan, near Noosa, last year, after buying 150 acres at Coochin Creek and before acquiring The Imperial Hotel.

It also plans to build the largest hotel and entertainment venue on the Sunshine Coast at Aura. The $45m development is expected to open in early 2026.

Two of the Comiskey Group’s flagship developments are the Eatons Hill Hotel and Sandstone Point Hotel.