If you’ve been to Bungendore’s Royal Hotel, you may have noticed the face masks on the façade. Some believe they are the masks of a former Royal, while others say they are the death masks of John (Jack) McMahon, the first publican who managed the Royal Hotel; after all, folklore has it that Jack died tragically so his ghost lingers in the Royal Hotel! On the other hand, local legend also suggests that Jack was just narcissistic and actually had the masks added to the pub when it opened in 1882.
This story is just one of the many curiosities that surround the historic town of Bungendore — and that is passed around by proud Bungendorians like Christine Allard. Christine has lived in Bungendore for over a decade (and yet still considers herself a newcomer to the town!) Through Rotary, Christine is active in the community, assisting in events such as ANZAC and Remembrance Days and projects like the Bungendore History Walk. She shares some more of her favourite anecdotes about Bungendore below:
Christine Allard, Bungendore Rotary Club
“Did You Know…”
“— that royalty has graced Bungendore?”
In 1934, the Duke of Gloucester, a member of the British Royal Family, was appointed as the Governor-General of Australia. As part of a larger tour, he visited Bungendore by train. It was said to have been a brief stopover, during which the Duke interacted with the townspeople. Particularly noted was his impromptu appearance at The Diggers’ Ball held in the Federal Hall. As the story goes, the local children threw stones into the nearby creeks during the night to keep the noisy frogs quiet so the Duke could get some sleep!
“— that the panel on the pub is backwards?”
At the end of 2023, the Royal Hotel reopened its doors after a makeover that gave the historic building a fresh lease on life. Among the carefully-restored features was the iconic iron lacework balustrade on the upper floor. One panel, however, was deliberately replaced back to front — not a mistake, but a nod to history because when the building was heritage-listed, this little detail was part of its charm.
“— that Bungendore has been on the silver screen?”
Due to its closeness to Canberra, its picturesque rural setting, historic architecture, and charming streets, filmmakers have often flocked to Bungendore for that authentic Australian country backdrop. Just to name a few, Bungendore has appeared in Ned Kelly (1969) with Mick Jagger; The Year My Voice Broke (1987) with Noah Taylor, Leone Carmen and Ben Mendelsohn and the TV show, Seven Little Australians (1973), based on the novel by Ethel Turner.
A Day in Bungendore
If this piques your interest about Bungendore’s history, Christine recommends taking the Bungendore History Trail, which currently covers 27 sites.
On your walk you can stop for a coffee or lunch at one of Bungendore’s many cafés and eateries. For a classic pub feed, there are two pubs in town; the top pub being the Royal Hotel and the bottom pub being The Lake George.
Be sure to spend some time at Site 4 on the History Walk, The Malbon, which houses The Lake Room and gives an insight on the history of Lake George.
Got the kids in tow? Let them run amuck at Bungendore Playground or hit a ball at the tennis courts. There are also cricket nets on Butmaroo/Gibraltar Sts, where you can find public toilets.
Lake George, Wood Works Cafe, Bungendore War Memorial
Fancy a Whole Weekend in Bungendore?
Christine has recommended the below events that are worth planning a trip around:
The Bungendore Show (October): This annual celebration brings the community together with livestock displays, equestrian events, arts, crafts, and family-friendly activities showcasing rural life at its best.
Bungendore Rodeo (First Sunday in November): Saddle up for a day of adrenaline-fueled action with the best of Australia’s cowboy and cowgirl culture, rodeo sports and family entertainment.
Monthly markets at the War Memorial Hall (2nd Sunday of the Month): Discover unique handmade crafts, fresh produce, and local treasures while supporting the region’s small businesses and creatives.
The Preschool Fair and Pig Races (March): A quirky and fun-filled event featuring pig racing, games, and community stalls — all in support of the local preschool.
ANZAC Day (25 April): Both the Dawn and Main services (followed by the Gunfire Breakfast at the Scout Hall) have traditionally been well-attended, and numbers have only grown in recent years.
Bungendore Quilters’ Annual Quilt Exhibition (4th Weekend in November): A stunning showcase of craftsmanship where members display their intricate handmade quilts, patchwork and textiles.
The Picnic Train: Back in March 2025 by popular demand, travel back in time on a heritage steam train from Canberra to Bungendore (and back) with a buffet service and an option for a traditional high tea — though in keeping with the name, BYO picnic hampers are highly encouraged!
There are also several wineries in surrounding areas and there is excellent rail access from Bungendore to neighbours like Canberra, Queanbeyan and Goulburn.
Weekend activities in Bungendore.
Written by Thuc Do for Visit Queanbeyan-Palerang.