The Hanging of Andrew Vair | St Arnaud

In January 1869, a shot rang out on the tramway at Armenian Gully, St Arnaud. Amos Cheale — mine manager, town councillor, and the man who had stripped Scottish miner Andrew Vair of his gold discovery — fell dying in the dust.

Vair fled. For over a year he evaded police across two colonies. When he was finally brought to trial at the Ararat Circuit Court, the jury found him guilty — but begged for mercy. The judge refused.

On 15 August 1870, Andrew Vair became the last man ever hanged from St Arnaud.

The Hanging of Andrew Vair is a true crime drama based on real events, written by Bryan Small and first performed by the St Arnaud Theatre Company in 1985. This July, the play returns to the town where it all happened — for three shows only.

Performed at St Arnaud Town Hall.
Three performances: 9th & 11th July 2026.