# Googong Residents Celebrate Opening of Landmark $25 Million Glenrock Hotel The massive hospitality hub marks a major milestone for the rapidly expanding township. - **Source:** [Canberra Times](https://www.canberratimes.com.au) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/35cdd827-e759-4b24-bb49-f1f279ba3e1e ## New Hospitality Landmark Opens The Glenrock Hotel officially opened its doors on November 12, 2026, in the growing township of Googong. This massive $25 million facility represents a significant addition to the area's limited infrastructure. Owners Anthony and Sandy McDonald spent sixteen months constructing the two-storey venue, which aims to serve the community's 9,500 residents. ## Facility Capacity and Features The venue spans a large footprint, featuring a 400-seat bistro, the Fire Horse Asian restaurant, a sports bar, and a beer garden. With a total capacity of 800 patrons, the hotel accommodates approximately 8.4 per cent of the town's population. It also includes private function rooms and a dedicated play area for children. ## Long-Term Development Vision Anthony McDonald began discussions with Googong developers in 2022, marking a long and arduous planning process. The project is viewed as a strategic investment, anticipating the town's population growth to 18,000 by 2040. The McDonalds previously transformed the Royal Hotel in Queanbeyan, establishing their reputation as experienced publicans in the region. ## Community Impact and Sentiment Residents have long expressed a need for local social spaces, with some locals waiting decades for such amenities. Dean Martin, president of the Googong Residents' Association, noted that the pub provides a vital space for family dinners and social gatherings. It serves as a central hub for both residents and visitors. ## Retail Expansion Still Pending While the pub is now operational, the community remains focused on the arrival of a major supermarket. A $44 million deal for a Coles retail centre was established in 2023, but construction only commenced in late October 2026. The supermarket is now expected to open in late 2027, following initial delays. ## Retail Centre Future Outlook The upcoming retail precinct will be located adjacent to the Glenrock Hotel. Beyond the Coles supermarket, the centre is slated to house a pharmacy, a medical centre, and various food and beverage outlets. Ray White has been partnered to manage the leasing of these stores, aiming to create a complete township experience. ## Rapid Township Growth Dynamics Googong has expanded significantly since its establishment in 2012, previously relying on limited services like a single IGA and a petrol station. The addition of the Glenrock Hotel and the future high school, scheduled for 2027, signals a shift toward a more self-sufficient community structure that reduces reliance on nearby Canberra. ## Strategic Importance of Infrastructure The development of these facilities is essential for supporting the region's rapid population growth. By integrating hospitality and essential retail services, developers Peet and Mirvac are attempting to foster a cohesive social environment. The successful opening of the hotel serves as a benchmark for the town's ongoing transition into a complete township. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/9390474/googong-welcomes-25m-glenrock-hotel-as-township-expands/?src=rss — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._