If you crouch down at the entrance to this barristers and solicitors office you will discover the original purpose of this imposing and commanding building on the corner of Mair and Lydiard Streets.

The Palace Hotel was built in 1887 by Hugh Raverty for £15,000. The huge 40 roomed hotel was managed by Helen Raverty after her husband Hugh's death. Helen was frequently up on charges at the local court for having her pub open and serving drinks outside of regulated hours.

In 1918 she surrendered the licence when the hotel was sold to the Ballarat Trustees and Executors Agency for £6,000. Ballarat Trustees and Executors Agency took up premises in part of the building leasing offices to tenants like F.S. Howie's Dental surgery.