The oldest town in the Riverina’s only pub has new owners as former Koondrook residents Joel and Sandra Turvey take the reins on the iconic Tattersall Hotel.

The landmark building is nestled on the banks of the Edward River, just downstream of the Billabong Creek junction and has in recent years enjoyed a renaissance of interest. The outgoing owners Sandra and Jose de Olivera, brought with them a passion for good food, community and eclectic furniture. With a need to return to Melbourne, the pub was on the market and the country pub-loving pair, Joel and Sandra, saw an opportunity.

“We love Moulamein, it’s a great community and has always been very welcoming.” said Joel

“We would be up here pretty regularly to camp and fish on the Edward and, of course, enjoy a cold beer in the pub.”

“I think we were both looking for a new challenge, and what better way than to tackle a great Aussie pub like the Tatts.”

Reported in the Pastoral Times in 1928, the paper described a newly built ‘Handsome Modern Hotel’ built on the most up-to-date lines, with every modern convenience for the comfort of patrons. Then owner, Mrs Stevenson, of Woorooma East, decided to erect a new building that would be ‘not only substantial and commodious but would be a credit to Moulamein and would amply supply all that was lacking in the original structure.’

The Design of the hotel was entrusted to Mr. Robert B. Hamilton a well-known architect of Queen Street, Melbourne. The two-story cream brick beauty has had many yarns spun around the beautiful timber bar and stunning stained glass windows that filter in the light from outside.

“We’ve got a few things in mind,” said Sandra, as we sat watching Joel diligently constructing the foosball table.

“We want to be able to offer a great place for families to come and enjoy themselves.”

“We’re revamping the kids’ room and changing up the dining room to offer a bit more space for people to come and enjoy a great meal and have a fun night out.”

Chef Pete has been delighting the locals with great meals, and the fully stocked bar ensures no one is left thirsty.

Dinner is available seven nights a week, and lunch is on offer from Thursdays to Sundays.

The stunning leadlight windows at the iconic Tattersall Hotel.
Photo: The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper

“We just want to offer a good feed, the best cold beer and a great atmosphere.” added Joel.

There’s never been a better time to check out Moulamein, and don’t forget the Heritage Village, the historic court house and of course the ‘Big Tree” and I do mean BIG!

This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 24 April 2025.