Homebush Hotel - a tree change decision leads to Australia Day party

Pictured is the stalwart crew at the Homebush Hotel, Vicky Barnes, Jim and Gail Quick, Donna McDonald (Relief Manager), and Jim and Janet Redman. Vicky is a helpful local, and Terry and Janet Redman are Jim’s sister and brother in law who came visiting from Queensland, fell in love with the place, and now make regular trips. Images: The Riverine Grazier/Kimberly Grabham.

By Kimberly Grabham - January 31, 2024

When Jim and Gail Quick drove up to the Homebush Hotel site eight months ago, Gail figured that this treechange would be something to which she would have to become accustomed. A week later, however, she knew she never wanted to leave. The couple are the managers of the pub.

“The local community is so amazing,” Gail said. “They just rally around, join in the fun and are always helping. We recently had a trivia night and were delighted when some 100 people turned up, although we didn’t expect it. Because we didn’t expect so many, it was only Jim and I working at the time, so the locals jumped behind the bar and gave us a hand, we could not ask for better people around here.”

Jim and Gail organised the event, which was nothing short of terrific. Featuring throng throwing, Yabbie races, stockman’s races, a dunk machine, lamington eating contest, warm beer and cold pie eating, stock whipping demonstrations, and so much fun throughout the day, it was an event to remember.

Young and old were having the time of their lives out at Homebush on Australia Day, and that is really what it’s all about, getting together, having fun, and that treasured sense of community.

Below left: Showing off their Australia Day tattoos are Callen Bruton, Helen Ferguson, and Janet Redman. Helen was getting everyone in on the spirit, visiting different tables and assisting to apply tattoos.

Below Right: On either side of Gail are highly valued volunteer cooks, Natalie Hussey and Travis Linnett. The pair had the children in tow, who were having a blast with the water guns Gail had given all the children.