The building was modelled on Pentonville prison in London, replacing the original, designed by Inspector General John Price, which was never occupied.

From 1861 to 1908, the gaol housed all manner of criminals, including lunatics and debtors, and ten men were hanged within the walls.

In the later of these years however, the gaol housed mostly short-term prisoners and first-time offenders.

The gaol then closed for a number of years, before reopening in 1954 to accommodate medium-security prisoners from across the state.

It served as the studio for local community radio station WMA FM/Main FM 94.9 as well as various small businesses.