WHERE can you be in a convivial atmosphere which offers the possibil­ity of finding out about sheep stations, opal mining either by hand or with D-9s, long hauls with road trains and vast cattle runs?

The Tattersalls Hotel, that’s where. The gracious old building has a wonderful atmosphere, and is a great introduction to this vast land which is right in the middle of “Waltzing Matilda” country.

Paul Neilsen and his team extend their hospitality to the varied workers and classes of the region. On any one day in the public bar, you might meet miners, station owners, ringers, truck drivers, cattle buyers, shearers, machinery operators, professionals, councillors and mums and dads!

Choose from six beers and stout on tap or grab a stubby straight off the ice. Meals are available seven days a week in the hotel’s dining room, public bar or al fresco on the footpath. You can tuck into anything from prime beef to seafood. The Tatts is famous for both! The chefs who run the kitchen will make sure your meal is superb. If you’re watching your pennies, there’s always a daily special.

The dining room is worth a mention just for its originality. It’s done out in real outback decor, with rustic old stoves, corrugated iron features and indoor plants all blending among the pink walls and maroon trims.

Live entertainment is a regular occurrence, and there are poker machines in case you’re feeling lucky. Budget accommodation is available. Tatts Hotel is situated in the main street of town, close to the caravan park and all services. While you’re there, pick up some specials at the bottle shop.