When tree-changers Frank and Debbie Wust bought the pub that starred in Crocodile Dundee just over a decade ago, they had no idea it also meant helping to run an outback community.
"I answered the phone with my name and the guy on the other end said, 'You be frank, and I'll be earnest.'"Celebrity drop-ins and television appearances have become almost routine for husband-and-wife team Frank and Debbie Wust over the years.
After a decade at the helm, Debbie and Frank want to start a new chapter, but say their replacement must be someone who understands that taking on an outback pub also means taking on a community.As temperatures start to tip 40 degrees Celsius in remote western Queensland, fewer tourists are pulling up on the bar stools of the old hotel.
Frank wakes with the sun to start the mail run, navigating hot dirt roads and farm gates to deliver to 12 different stops. Just over a decade ago, Debbie was an international travel consultant and Frank a fitter and turner by trade, working shifts at a coal mine. The Walkabout has been on the market for nearly three years, leaving them 10-and-a-half years into their 10-year plan."No-one's actually come out and had a serious look. But it was on the market for four years before we bought it too."The couple are getting on with things — long days are bookended by a cup of tea together in the morning and a game of pool to end each night.
Outback Pub Rural Remote Community Walkabout Creek Hotel Crocodile Dundee Mckinlay Western Queensland Mount Isa Longreach
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Crocodile Dundee Star Paul Hogan 'Stressed' Over Son's Social Media AnticsPaul Hogan is reportedly concerned about his youngest son, Chance Hogan's, recent online activity. Chance, 26, has shared unsettling photos and videos on Instagram, displaying unusual dental changes and speaking in a cryptic manner. The Australian actor is said to be growing increasingly worried and considering a return to Australia.
Read more »
Geologist's family retrace final moments of mother who died prospecting in outback QldEager for the memory of their mother to be more than the 'unidentified' woman, Scott and Glen Morrison have come forward to honour the much-loved grandmother, friend and businesswoman.
Read more »
Remote students celebrate life in the outback with music video for Station LifeCarnarvon School of the Air students have shed light on what life is like in the outback in a special music video.
Read more »
After WWII battle with HMAS Sydney, German seamen landed on an outback sheep stationFrom the moment Keith Baston picked up the phone on November 25, 1941, the story of HMAS Sydney's last battle would be intertwined with his family for generations.
Read more »
Longreach outback run club brings people together to beat the heatIt's often more than 40 degrees when this group of runners hit the track for their weekly run meet. They say running in a collective is the best way to exercise in the outback heat.
Read more »
‘Crocodile of Wall Street’ jailed for role in theft of Bitcoin now worth billionsThe woman who dubbed herself the “Crocodile of Wall Street” and “Razzlekhan” in rap videos was jailed for helping her hacker husband launder cryptocurrency.
Read more »