The Blue Heeler

Well, on January 29, 2024 there was a big flood from ex-Tropical Cyclone 'Kirrily'.  Down here in Tasmania I don't believe we heard about it as that particular cyclone was too far away in the outback in Queensland.

The pub was submerged in three feet of water after 400-500 mm of rain fell in the area. The hotel is located on the banks of the Diamantina River, and is a historic pub with a rich history in Australian folklore.  It was a staging post for Cobb and Co. coaches in the 1860's.

The pub's publican said the repair bill would be about $500,000-$600,000 AUD.  There was at the time a Go Fund me page set up and I don't know if the pub is fully functional at this time.

We have been through this area a few times in our travels, called in to view the inside of the pub and it certainly was and is different.  Writing on the wall, you pay to do that with a donation going to the Royal Flying Doctors.  The photos tell the story.

I'm sure most of my readers have heard of 'Waltzing Matilda', the lyrics written by Banjo Patterson.  There was a man who often visited The Blue Heeler pub back in the day who was the inspiration after his death of that famous Australia song, Waltzing Matilda which means to 'carry a swag', walk the road.  Christina Macpherson was the women who penned the tune.  Waltzing Matilda apparently had it's debut inside the dining room of the pub. 

A little video of Australia's Delta Goodrem singing one verse of Waltzing Matilda in Sydney.

Enjoy the photos of this unique hotel.  The first 3 photos are from the internet and the remainder were taken by myself.  Yes, I played the piano.