Historic Burnett pub unveils new look

Monto publicans Doug O'Sullivan and Tina McGrath have unveiled the new renovations to the Grand Hotel. We take a look inside the pub's long-awaited upgrades.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Monto publican Doug O'Sullivan admires the new-look Grand Hotel. Picture: Mackenzie Colahan

MONTO publicans Doug O'Sullivan and Tina McGrath have unveiled the newly-completed renovations to the Grand Hotel.

This week, the Central & North Burnett Times got a sneak peek inside the pub's long-awaited upgrades.

For the first time in a decade, Monto's Grand Hotel is offering accommodation after the painstaking eight-month job was finished this month.

So far, 15 of the 22 rooms are available to book, starting from $50/night, with discounted rates available for long-term stays.

The extensive refurbishments include a rebuild of the deck and stairs, new carpet, lights, paint, bathrooms, beds and the installation of reverse-cycle air conditioning units in each of the rooms.

Grand Hotel Renovations

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The renovations were on the publicans' to do list for a number of years, but the project was delayed while they replaced the roof.

The affordable overnight options complement the pub's upgraded dining room, beer garden and TAB.

All of these projects are recent additions to the Grand, completed under the ownership of Mr O'Sullivan and Mrs McGrath.

Mr O'Sullivan, who did most of the work himself, said the construction added value to business and will help to attract travellers and out-of-town workers to the hotel.

"We were knocking back accommodation every week," he said.

"The rooms are only a budget option, we never intend to compete with the motels.

"It was just about finding the time to get it done."