The Plough's Cocktales & Recipes

Welcome to Cocktale O'Clock, where we blend a sip of history with a tale to share. Today we head back to February 1868 when a group of local workers from Mr Shuter's property decided to pay a visit to Myrniong. They were all in good spirits, with the clear intention of enjoying some convivial merriment at Thomas & Mary Ryan's Plough Hotel. However, the evening took an unexpected turn when the gardener from the group, in his enthusiasm, indulged a bit too liberally. This left him in a rather unfortunate predicament, as one of his companions relieved him of an unspecified sum of money. The situation did not go unnoticed, and the local Constable quickly sprang into action. The suspect was apprehended, and upon searching him, a collection of notes and silver was discovered. Fortunately, two of these notes could be traced back to their rightful owners. The following day, the suspect was escorted to Ballan, where he awaited a most likely temporary placement in a governm...

Welcome to Cocktale O'Clock, where we enjoy a sip of history with a tale to share. In 1878, William & Eliza Lauder managed The Plough before moving on 4 years later after purchasing the Commercial Hotel in Romsey. One fine day in October 1887, Mrs. Lauder's hospitality was extended to a large party of friends for a picnic to nearby Hanging Rock. They gathered at Mrs Lauder's residence early in the morning, then paraded their way through the streets. They put on a striking display, with the highlight being a young lady's spirited ride on a dark chestnut horse. The day at the Rock was truly delightful, with everyone relishing a delicious feast, courtesy of Mrs. Lauder. They finally set off for home once the sun's disappearance signalled nightfall. The journey back was swift and joyful, with Mrs. Lauder being warmly thanked and congratulated by her many friends for the success and enjoyment of the day's outing. Now, in contrast, Joan Lindsay's jaunt to Han...

Welcome to Cocktail O'Clock, where we enjoy a sip of history with a story to share. In this week's tale, we venture into remarkable outcomes born from unexpected mishaps. Back in 1897, John Foley, the licensee of The Plough Hotel, found himself in legal trouble for permitting drunkenness on his premises, a recurring issue during his residency. In this particular incident, Foley boldly declared to the attending police officer, "it is my place, and don't you touch him " in reference to the drunk patron. However, an unexpected twist occurred when Foley followed the police officer to the Bacchus Marsh lock-up, inadvertently leading to him being locked up for "trespassing." Eventually, the case was dismissed with Foley receiving a stern warning in relation to his responsibilities as a Publican. Within three years, due to repeated mishaps, Foley relinquished his publican's license to his sister Kate Foley who capably managed The Plough Hotel for...

Welcome to Cocktail O'Clock, where we enjoy a sip of history with a tale to share.  Today, we uncover a short tale of the legendary James Elijah Crook, who was not only an early pioneer of the region, but regarded as a "guide, philosopher and friend to many". He arrived in Tasmania with his parents in 1832 as a 13-year-old. Within a few years, James landed in Victoria and quickly became involved in everything from racehorses to land ownership, buying much sought-after land in this district. He made one of many historic moves by purchasing the Manor House in 1856, a bluestone building that still stands today. Now, James was an impressive figure, standing 188cm and weighing in at around 150 kilos. He had the opportunity to demonstrate his strength on one occasion while travelling to Melbourne by Cobb & Co. coach, which was ‘bailed up’ by two masked bushrangers. Singlehandedly, James knocked out the two men and handed them over to the police. Today, I present The Bu...