The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting that innovative Sydney publican, James Miller (Drink & Dine Group) passed away earlier today. The article says that it is believed he died as a result of a suspected accidental drug overdose.
He was a central part of the team that brought innovation to Sydney’s pub landscape, with each of their venues — The Norfolk Hotel, The Carrington, The Abercombie, and most recently, Santa Barbara — enjoying great success in revitalising the local drinking scene.
Bartender’s Publisher, David Spanton said that James was a good friend to the magazine and to the wider bar community.
“I’m in shock and devastated that the industry has lost such a young and innovative operator and a genuinely decent guy,” he said. “Rest in peace, James.”
Our thoughts are with his family and extended family at the Drink & Dine group. He will be sorely missed.
The Sydney Morning Herald’s article can be found here.