The Five Flags is one of the oldest pubs in the Castlemaine area, and has operated continuously for over 146 years. The licence was first granted in 1854, at the height of the great Mount Alexander gold rush.

The origin of the name is a little mysterious. Some think it refers to flags placed outside the hotel indicating what languages were understood: probably English, German, Chinese, Danish and Welsh or something similar. Others believe that there were five blue flags on bush poles, signifying a trading post; one where gold could be exchanged. One of our staff's parents said the 'flags' were actually flagstones on the verandah! If they were, they're long gone.

We do know that the first meeting of what has eventually become the Shire of Mount Alexander was held in the 'Long Room', and that the large square room at the back of the hotel was built as 'The Concert Hall' and hosted many famous names over the years.

The Cyril Moxon Story (as promised)

Legend has it that, between the wars, a young couple had a disagreement in the bar. They left on their Indian motorcycle, only to stop a few hundred yards down the road, where the man, Cyril Moxon, made his wife get off. He then rode back at full speed into the verandah of the hotel, an impact which he did not survive. This may or may not explain the occasional unexplained disturbances and 'presences' felt by the staff now and again. Of course, this is just as likely to be the bourbon and cokes they have at knock-off time, too.

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As more information comes to hand, we will place it here. If visitors to this page have more about the pub or the area, send it to us and we'll include it here.