The Sir George was first built in 1845 by Irish settler John Philip Sheahan. During the 19th century, Jugiong was a bustling stop for drovers, coaches, and travelers making their way between Sydney and Melbourne. The pub quickly became a community hub—a place where weary travellers could rest, exchange stories and enjoy a drink by the fireplace.

However, the 19th century in rural Australia was also a time of bushrangers. One of the most notorious incidents tied to Jugiong was the attack by the infamous Hall Gang in 1864. The gang, led by Ben Hall, ambushed the Gundagai mail coach near Jugiong. In the shootout that followed, the town’s police sergeant, Edmund Parry, was killed, marking a violent chapter in the area’s history.

By the late 20th century, as traffic along the Hume Highway was diverted away from Jugiong, The Sir George, like much of the town, fell into decline. The once-vibrant pub became a shadow of its former self, eventually falling into disrepair. The historic stone walls and timber beams remained standing, but the spirit of the place seemed lost.

That changed in the early 2010s when new owners, mother-and-daughter duo Liz Prater and Kate Hufton saw the potential for revival. With a deep respect for history and a passion for hospitality, they embarked on an ambitious project to restore The Sir George to its former glory.

The restoration project, completed in 2015 or 2016, was not just about bringing the pub back to life but doing so in a way that honoured its rich history. Great care was taken to preserve the original stone walls and timber floors with each carefully restored rather than replaced.

The project also saw the construction of boutique-style accommodation, offering guests the chance to stay in restored stables that date back to the 1800s. The interiors of the pub were designed to balance modern comfort with rustic charm, incorporating heritage-inspired decor.

During the restoration, the team uncovered artefacts from the past, including old coins, bottles, and even remnants of past structures hidden within the walls. Each discovery added another layer to the story of The Sir George, connecting the past with the present.

Liz Prater was the designer of the accommodation and renovation of the pub, including the incredible landscape design and gardens.

Since its reopening, The Sir George has once again become the beating heart of Jugiong. It is a place where locals gather, travellers pause for a meal, and history enthusiasts marvel at its careful restoration. The menu showcases fresh, seasonal produce, often sourced from the surrounding region.

The pub’s beautiful beer garden has become a favourite spot for visitors, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal and a drink under the shade of beautiful trees. Regular events, from live music to artisan markets, continue the tradition of The Sir George as a meeting place for the community.

With its storied past, careful restoration and continued commitment to excellence, The Sir George is more than just a pub—it is a celebration of Australian heritage, and a welcoming stop for those who appreciate the blend of old and new. Whether you’re stopping in for a meal, staying overnight in the heritage stables or simply soaking in the atmosphere, a visit to The Sir George is like stepping back in time while enjoying the comforts of the present.

In 2021, The Sir George entered a new chapter under private ownership, with its custodians dedicated to preserving its rich history and timeless charm. This new chapter involved the recruitment of new Executive Chef Anthony Davis who has brought innovation to our food program, elevating the dining experience at the restaurant and bar. With a deep respect for its past and a vision for its continued presence, The Sir George remains a place for all visitors, near or far, to gather and celebrate