EXPLOITS of colonial bush-rangers are recorded by the journal-full, but one well-known hold-up that has slipped from the pages was that of Ben Hall's final robbery at the Nubrygyn Inn.
Now the historic pub, built by free settler William Brazier in the 1840s, is set to return to its rightful place in history, as plans to restore the building and get it placed on the State's Heritage Register have been put in motion.
History may have bypassed the tiny village of Nubrygyn completely (as nearby Euchareena expanded) if it wasn't for Hall and his gang.
On Sunday, April 23, 1865, Hall, John Gilbert and John Dunn, assisted by an unidentified local, rode up to the Nubrygyn Inn and boldly held it up overnight before moving on.
The gang rounded-up people from within the immediate area, including Mr Brazier's wife and children, and proceeded to rob Mr Brazier, turning out his pockets at gunpoint to the tune of 14 pounds, then spent the same on liquor over the bar.
Now the great-grandchildren of the Braziers - who still own "Nubrygyn" and adjoining properties - want to restore the inn to its former glory.
Taking up the challenge as a major family and community project are Kate Gadsby, "Binnowee", and her cousins, Warwick (Waddy) Brazier, "Pipers Flat", Euchareena, and his brother David, who now owns "Nubrygyn".
"This is another episode in the Hall saga which has not been publicised much until now, but the report spread like wildfire through newspapers and journals throughout NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and even Perth," Mrs Gadsby said.
She had counted up to 38 published reports of the hold-up.
"It made big headlines in 1865."
One section of the inn has since been demolished, but the original mud brick (locally made) and mud-rendered walled building - which was constructed on a layered stone foundation with stone cellar - is standing quite sturdily.
Assistance was provided by heritage and architectural advisor David Scobie, and Euchareena local historian Peter Merriman.
"It's just our aim to preserve the building because of the State and national significance of the hold-up,"?Mrs Gadsby said.
"There are places and buildings noted for their historic and heritage significance from similar episodes throughout the State and we believe this hold-up is equally important.
"The building is unique for its building style and circa, and it has an excellent chance of restoration due to it not being completely derelict."
Mark Griggs
Journalist for The Land at Dubbo.
Journalist for The Land at Dubbo.
