About Us: A Timeline of the ShamMY

The Shamrock Hotel has stood proudly in the heart of Numurkah for more than a century. Originally established in the late 1800s and rebuilt in brick after a devastating fire in 1889, the Shamrock has always been more than a pub – it’s been a gathering place, a landmark, and part of the town’s story.

The most enduring chapter belongs to the Brown family, who purchased the hotel in the late 1960s. Fred Brown Sr. and his wife Agnes set the stage, with their son Fred Jr. and later son-in-law Chris O’Dwyer carrying the tradition forward. In 2003, Chris officially joined the business, and alongside the Browns, helped guide the Shamrock through decades of change.

A major renovation in 2011 breathed fresh life into the historic building – expanding dining spaces, updating facilities, and creating a more comfortable, welcoming hotel while staying true to its heritage. Throughout, the Shamrock’s reputation as a family-friendly, community-focused venue remained at the core.

In 2021, the Browns and O’Dwyers passed the torch, briefly welcoming new caretakers, before the Shamrock found its current footing. As of Easter 2024, Chris O’Dwyer and John Beitzel proudly co-own the hotel, committed to continuing its legacy as Numurkah’s favourite meeting place.

Today, the Shamrock is exactly what it has always been – a place to catch up with mates, share a meal, celebrate milestones, and feel at home in the heart of town.