The Capella Hotel Motel, located at the corner of Peak Downs and Crinum Street in Capella, Queensland, has been an integral part of the town since its opening in 1955.
It was built on the site of the original Commercial Hotel, which tragically burned down in 1943.
The town of Capella was founded in the 1860s and named after Capella Creek, which was in turn named after the star Capella.
Initially a small roadside stopping place, Capella’s growth was spurred by the opening of the railway line connecting the larger towns of Emerald and Clermont in 1882. This development brought with it the need for more amenities, including hotels, and the Capella Hotel was built to meet this demand.
When the new Capella Hotel opened in 1955, it received enthusiastic coverage in the Central Queensland Herald. Described as a modern, first-class establishment, it was a significant milestone for the growing community. Over the years, the Capella Hotel has continued to serve the town, witnessing and contributing to Capella’s ongoing development and growth. Today, the hotel stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and its evolution from a small outpost to a thriving community.