A classic old pub has been given new life at the hands of a committed local who has returned to his bush roots.
Story + Photos Emma Rose
The undulating bends and dips in the road that runs through the centre of Tarcowie in SA’s Mid North hint at the meaning of the town’s name, which translates as ‘place of washaway water’ from the local Ngadjuri language. Looking along the bitumen strip, with its scattered heritage buildings and homes resting in the scant shade of crispy gum trees, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it’s been a fair while since any creeks have flowed. There is, however, one watering point that is showing well-lubricated signs of recent attention: the marvellous Tarcowie Hotel, established in 1878 and given a new lease on life thanks to the efforts of Mark Jefferson and his partner Ange Avina.
Mark grew up on the family farm just south of Tarcowie, but spent many years away. Wandering around the now-renovated hotel, you will see evidence of his eclectic history. The Kenworth truck image on the wall and the hand-crafted cabinetry in the new front bar are just a couple of nods to the time before he became Tarcowie’s favourite barman, chef and taxi driver.
Locals and visitors alike are invariably impressed by the craftsmanship of the pub’s fine ceilings and are equally happy with the way Mark has retained many of its hallmark features – the leadlight doors, the standing fire in the corner of the front bar, the old pool table or the much-loved jukebox and pinball machine. It’s a small building, yet it still has the feel of a place with wide open arms for those ducking in for a cleansing beer between checking mobs of sheep, or the travellers passing on their way to the Flinders Ranges.
This story excerpt is from issue #166
Outback Magazine: Apr/May 2026
