Our Story

 

The Heritage of Trooper’s Rest

Built in 1840, Trooper’s Rest is one of Braidwood’s oldest and most historically significant buildings. It was first licensed in 1845 by John Daffarn, who had previously operated the Dog and Style Hotel in Queanbeyan. Bringing the name with him to Braidwood, Daffarn faced early legal troubles for selling alcohol before his licence was formally granted—a common challenge on the colonial frontier.

Soon after, the venue was renamed the Prince of Wales Inn, and by 1853, under publican Peter Stewart, it had become a key social hub for travellers, townsfolk, and goldfield workers alike. Its location was no coincidence—next door stood the original Braidwood Police Station, and across the nearby creek lay the Police Paddock, where horses were kept for mounted troopers. Throughout the mid to late 1800s, the inn became a popular drinking place for police troopers, a tradition that would later inspire its present-day name.

The site was also central to the gold escort network that operated between Araluen, Major’s Creek, and Braidwood during the height of the gold rush. From 1865 to 1885, the Golden Times Coach regularly departed from the venue, carrying gold bullion, cash, and armed police escorts to connect with stagecoaches heading to Goulburn and Queanbeyan. These escorts were heavily protected—usually consisting of a professional driver, armed troopers on and around the coach, and safes bolted to the carriage floor.

The area was not without danger. In March 1865, the infamous bushrangers Ben Hall and Tom Clarke joined forces to ambush the gold escort coach as it climbed the hill to Major’s Creek. The coach carried a large sum of gold belonging to Araluen gold buyer John Huxham Blatchford, who was on board. A vicious fight broke out—four troopers bravely defended the coach, with Constable Kelly wounded in the attack. Blatchford ran back to Araluen to raise the alarm, and Inspector Orridge rode from the temporary police barracks at Tidmarsh in Braidwood to assist. The bushrangers ultimately fled into the bush, but the attack underscored the lawlessness and danger of the time—and the critical role this building played in it all.

Over the decades, the building evolved—serving as a hotel, private residence, and meeting place. In 1980, Cheryl and John Durst opened a restaurant here called Torphys, which became one of the region’s most prominent dining venues, regularly hosting politicians and well-known figures. Later, it became known as Torpeas under new owners.

By 2020, the building was in disrepair and underwent major renovations by Alley and Nick Kemp, who carefully restored original features including convict-made brick fireplaces, timber doors, and wooden floorboards. Upon reopening, the venue was renamed Trooper’s Rest, paying tribute to the police troopers who once gathered here and the building’s deep connection to law, order, and local history.

Today, Trooper’s Rest continues to serve as a welcoming place for locals and travellers alike—rich with stories, heritage, and nearly two centuries of history.

Meet Our Team

At Trooper’s Rest, our team brings passion, skill, and heart to every meal and moment, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that defines us. Our talented chef and culinary artists craft menus that celebrate local produce and traditional flavours, offering a modern take on comfort classics made with a deep love for the region. As a family-owned establishment, we believe in building meaningful connections with our guests and community. Every meal here is an invitation to join our family, where a dedication to service meets a genuine love for sharing our space and story with others.

Hold Fast Distillery Connection

Trooper’s Rest shares a unique bond with Hold Fast Distillery, offering a curated selection of locally distilled spirits that add a distinctive touch to our offerings. Guests can explore the art of gin-making at Hold Fast’s Gin School, where they can craft their own gin and create a lasting connection between our historic restaurant and one of the area’s most exciting distilleries. Founded by a Navy veteran, Hold Fast Distillery honours Australia’s maritime heritage, and its story naturally intertwines with Trooper’s Rest’s own rich history, allowing visitors to experience the best of both worlds.

A Place in the Heart of Braidwood

Trooper’s Rest is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cherished part of Braidwood’s fabric. Our Monthly Muster brings veterans together, fostering a sense of community, and our commitment to using local ingredients and sustainable practices keeps us closely connected to the land we call home. In 2020, we took on the task of restoring this historic site, breathing new life into a landmark that means so much to the community. Today, Trooper’s Rest stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal, welcoming all who enter with the warmth of open fireplaces and rich history. We’re proud to invite everyone who steps through our doors to experience a dining journey enriched by stories, spirit, and tradition. At Trooper’s Rest, you become a part of Braidwood’s living history.