Kuttabul Hotel to open new Ned Kelly-inspired bar

A ‘very good, typical country pub’ has recreated a century-old photo to bless a new era in time for the unveiling of a bar paying tribute to Australia’s infamous outlaw.

A pub that opened in the same decade the infamous outlaw Ned Kelly was executed has a new bar set to be unveiled in his honour.

The lovingly-crafted bar at Kuttabul Hotel is made out of recycled timbers from around the district and includes a jail cell adorned with authentic ball-and-chain ankle cuffs.

Kuttabul Hotel lessee Frank Petschauer is excited to unveil the new Ned Kelly Bar.. Picture: Heidi Petith

Hotel lessee Frank Petschauer said various improvements had been made since taking on the pub nine years ago but the latest built inside the Mango Blossom Hall borrowed a little inspiration from his childhood.

Kuttabul Hotel lessee Frank Petschauer says the bar was built using salvaged material across the district. Picture: Heidi Petith

“My very first book that I ever read as a kid was Ned Kelly and that’s true to god,” Mr Petschauer said.

“I was about seven,” he said with a laugh, adding that Kelly’s last muttered words “such is life” were tattooed on his chest.

He said they would officially open the bar at 3pm on December 11 with musicians Misconception, French Press, EJ Barker and DJ Country to play through the evening.

And taking pride of place at the pub will be a 21st century update on the black and white photograph taken in 1921.

Mr Petschauer said patrons had volunteered to recreate the historic photograph on the front porch, marking 100 years and many more to come with the pub now featuring live music every Friday, pool competitions and special events such as old school chopper motorcycle shows.

He said the pub had also introduced free camping available to anyone from backpackers to families to truckies.

Hotel owner Bob Donaldson said he bought the pub in 1989, making the move from Brisbane up to Mackay after travelling around the world on various construction jobs.

“I’m very happy,” Mr Donaldson said.

“It’s a very good, typical country pub.”

Tickets to the bar launch cost $25. Book by phoning 4954 0161.