About Us
The Stockman Hotel has always been more than just a pub — it’s a place where stories are shared, locals feel at home, and travellers are welcomed like old friends.
For nearly two decades, Helen Rush has been behind the bar as the Stockman's publican — a Ten Pound Pom arriving in Texas in 1982 as a young teacher, who fell in love with fourth-generation farmer Jack, and stayed. Through floods, heartbreak, and everything in between, she transformed the Stockman into a family-friendly pub built on warmth, resilience, and genuine community spirit while running the family cattle property with her son, Dennis.
In 2023, her daughter-in-law Grace Cheatley took over the reins — bringing with her a fresh perspective from Geelong, Victoria, and a background in psychology. Grace now runs the Stockman with the same big-hearted energy, while she and Dennis manage the Rush family’s cattle and sheep property just across the river.
Together, they bring a new generation of energy, creativity and commitment — continuing a legacy of hard work, hospitality and heart in both the paddock and the local pub.
From cold beers and classic country meals to honest conversations and a place to put your feet up — the Stockman is still what it’s always been: the heart of Texas.
The Stockman Hotel has always been more than just a pub — it’s a place where stories are shared, locals feel at home, and travellers are welcomed like old friends.
For nearly two decades, Helen Rush has been behind the bar as the Stockman's publican — a Ten Pound Pom arriving in Texas in 1982 as a young teacher, who fell in love with fourth-generation farmer Jack, and stayed. Through floods, heartbreak, and everything in between, she transformed the Stockman into a family-friendly pub built on warmth, resilience, and genuine community spirit while running the family cattle property with her son, Dennis.
In 2023, her daughter-in-law Grace Cheatley took over the reins — bringing with her a fresh perspective from Geelong, Victoria, and a background in psychology. Grace now runs the Stockman with the same big-hearted energy, while she and Dennis manage the Rush family’s cattle and sheep property just across the river.
Together, they bring a new generation of energy, creativity and commitment — continuing a legacy of hard work, hospitality and heart in both the paddock and the local pub.
From cold beers and classic country meals to honest conversations and a place to put your feet up — the Stockman is still what it’s always been: the heart of Texas.
