• Crs Rod Willox and Terry Tyzack check the lock on the recently abandoned brothel, happy to see it close up. Photo by Jeremy Dixon

An infamous Inglewood brothel has closed its doors— just days before a trial was held in which its owner was fined $80,000 for operating the bordello.

Stirling city council rangers searched 835 Beaufort Street after complaints from local residents the house was being used as a brothel, not a legitimate massage parlour.

The premises is listed as Top 835, offering massages, on internet business listings.

Rangers discovered packets of condoms in drawers; there were also double beds, showers and spas in every room.

A court magistrate ruled the premises was being used as a brothel and found the owner guilty for unauthorised use, issuing a fine of $80,000 plus costs.

Council spokesperson Simone Holmes-Cavanagh says the council believe the owner has locked the gates and moved on.

Mayor David Boothman says the decision will make other illegal operators take note.

“The evidence was hard to dispute and this is an excellent outcome,” he says.

“The finding by the magistrate demonstrates to owners of similar establishments that the law is willing to come down hard on you if you are operating similar businesses.”

Cr Terry Tyzack says he’s glad the city is doggedly pursuing the owners of illegal brothels.

“I think this result shows people that we won’t give up, and will keep investigating transgressions until we get an outcome for our Stirling ratepayers.”

by STEPHEN POLLOCK