Five years shy of a century ended last week when devotees of the Northbridge Hotel bid farewell as the property is set to be demolished to make way for a luxury residential tower.
The classic red brick pub was built by Tooth and Co on a prominent corner of main drag Strathallen Ave through Northbridge in 1931.
Early 1982 the freehold operation was sold to Michael Parras, who secured approval to renovate and reopened it in 1985 as Floyds. The Parras’ later passed the keys to Winners Circle Group, but in 2009 it yielded to the economic downturn and slipped into receivership.
Renowned legal practitioners the McGirr family have owned and operated dozens of pubs across NSW over several generations, and in 2010 they bought the Northbridge for an estimated $3.5 million.
On Australia Day, 26 January, hundreds of guests and regulars including Member for Willoughby, Tim James, gathered at the Hotel to say goodbye, before ‘time’ was called for the final time, at midnight.
“Thank you to the McGirr family who have put so much into this local icon,” remarked James.
Paul McGirr offered to patrons the pub had been many things to many people and a constant of Northbridge “through changing times, milestones and memories”.
“We’ve absolutely loved hearing your stories — first drinks, family celebrations, catch-ups with friends, and moments that have stayed with you long after the night ended,” he said.
Mid-2024 Hong Kong-based SJD Property first announced what would be unpopular plans to redevelop 57-69 Strathallen Avenue, replacing the two-storey Hotel and retail arcade Northbridge Village with a five-storey mixed use development comprising 24 apartments and six retail tenancies.
September 2025 SJD settled on the hotel asset for a figure reported to be $52.5 million, and the 95-year-old pub will trade no more.
“We share in your sadness that the Northbridge Hotel is now closed,” added McGirr.
“This is not an easy goodbye, and we are deeply grateful for the support, loyalty and love shown to this venue over the years.”
There is speculation the McGirrs may be able to find another location in Northbridge, indicating the sale may not have included the liquor or gaming licences, but Paul McGirr reports being unwell and is currently unable to discuss any intentions with PubTIC.
