The Tara Hotel, part of the regions rich history.
The Tara Hotel has a long history in the region, dating back to when it first opened it’s doors over 110 years ago.
The Tara Hotel has hugged the stunning countryside of the Western Downs. As a bustling town grew up around us over the decades, locals made this place the heart of their community. We’ve grown along with Tara, from a neighbourhood pub to a thriving hub of food, drink, accommodation, sport and entertainment around an outdoor picturesque landscape.
Hugh Sawrey: A Local Legend
Hugh Sawrey, one of Australia’s most celebrated artists, has a special connection to Tara. Known for his evocative depictions of the Australian outback, Sawrey’s work captures the rugged beauty and spirit of rural life, and his legacy is deeply rooted in our community. As a local legend, his influence extends far beyond his artwork, shaping the cultural identity of Tara and the Western Downs region.
Sawrey's first significant works were a series of murals at the Kogan Creek Hotel in 1959, based on themes from A.B. 'Banjo' Paterson's iconic poems. These murals, inspired by Australia’s poetic heritage, became a landmark of their own. The Kogan Hotel murals were eventually auctioned at Tia Galleries in Toowoomba on 26 July 1981, after an unsuccessful attempt to sell them at the hotel in 1980.
In 1960, Sawrey brought his artistic vision to Tara’s own Commercial Hotel, completing two remarkable murals: You'll Come a Waltzing Matilda with Me and Clancy's Gone to Queensland Droving. These works not only adorn the walls of our hotel but also weave the timeless spirit of Paterson’s poetry into the very fabric of Tara’s cultural landscape.
During his early years, Sawrey’s work extended beyond Tara. He executed murals in other regional hotels in exchange for accommodation, reflecting the humble and itinerant lifestyle that fuelled his passion for depicting outback life. Notable works from this period include Paterson's Bush Christening in the lounge of a hotel in Barcaldine and In Defense of the Bush for a hotel in Emerald.
Beyond his art, Sawrey played a crucial role in preserving outback history and culture, co-founding the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame. His dedication to celebrating the bush and its people left a lasting impact on the community.
Today, The Tara Hotel proudly honours Hugh Sawrey’s contributions. His murals continue to inspire both locals and visitors, serving as a testament to the enduring beauty and spirit of the outback. When you visit, take a moment to admire these works and connect with the legacy of one of Australia’s most iconic artists.
Barbara Geisel: Wool Art Masterpieces
At The Tara, we are honoured to display the exquisite wool art of Barbara Geisel, a local artist whose work beautifully reflects the creativity and heritage of the Western Downs region. Her intricate wool tapestries are not only visually stunning but also tell the story of rural life, nature, and the artistry of working with natural materials.
Barbara Geisel’s wool art has a unique charm, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Each piece is carefully woven from locally sourced wool, capturing the textures and colours of the outback. Her art is a tribute to the agricultural roots of our region, where wool production has long been a vital part of the community’s livelihood.
Geisel's works, which hang proudly in the Commercial Hotel, showcase her incredible attention to detail and deep connection to the land. The rich, earthy tones of her tapestries evoke the landscapes of the Australian countryside, while her intricate patterns and designs reflect the natural beauty of the area.
Her art is more than just decorative; it’s a celebration of the region’s pastoral heritage and a reflection of the skill and creativity that go into working with wool, a material that holds deep significance in the Western Downs. Barbara’s work has not only brought the beauty of wool art into the heart of Tara but has also helped to preserve and promote the craft within the community.
We invite you to explore Barbara Geisel’s wool masterpieces when you visit The Tara Hotel. Her work adds a unique and meaningful layer to the hotel’s ambiance, connecting guests to the rich cultural and agricultural traditions of Tara.
Remembering Yester-year
Mary Ann Chaplin: The First Owner of The Commercial Hotel, Tara
Mary Ann Chaplin holds a special place in the history of Tara as the first owner of The Commercial Hotel. A trailblazer and a resilient figure in the early 20th century, Mary Ann's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication helped shape the hotel into a cornerstone of the Tara community.
A Pioneer in Hospitality
Mary Ann Chaplin, a woman of vision and determination, took ownership of The Commercial Hotel during a time when Tara was just beginning to establish itself as a township. The hotel was founded in the early 1900s, and under her ownership, it became one of the town’s first major establishments, offering accommodation, food, and a social space for both locals and travellers.
During an era when women in business were still a rarity, Mary Ann’s leadership of the hotel was groundbreaking. Her ability to manage the day-to-day operations of the establishment, while also creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, made her a respected figure in the community. The hotel quickly gained a reputation for its hospitality, becoming a popular stop for those passing through the Western Downs region.
Legacy
Mary Ann Chaplin's legacy as the first owner of The Commercial Hotel endures to this day. Her pioneering efforts laid the foundation for a hotel that has remained a vital part of Tara for over a century. Her story is a testament to the strength and resilience of early Australian women who contributed significantly to their communities despite the challenges of the time.
Today, The Commercial Hotel continues to carry forward the spirit of hospitality and community that Mary Ann Chaplin instilled over 100 years ago. Her contributions remain an integral part of the hotel’s history, and we honour her pioneering legacy as we welcome new generations of guests to experience the warmth and history of The Tara Hotel.