AUSTRALIA
ROADTRIP

South Australia
Western Australia
& Northern Territory

Start Location Victoria

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN TO BETOOTA

"Betoota Hotel, a quick lunch stop for sausages in bread washed down with a XXXX bitter, and then drive on to Birdsville."

Desert Sky Tours

Betoota

The place used to be known as Australia's smallest town.

For many years, the hamlet amid the harsh gibber plains of southwest Queensland, 166km east of Birdsville, consisted of just one pub and one resident. Belonging to a mysterious and eccentric publican named Simon "Ziggy" Remienko. He lived to be 88 years old and is buried in an unmarked grave behind the pub.

It was said that the prices of his beer or petrol would rise or fall depending on his mood or whether he liked a customer. One hapless drinker was charged $80 for a carton of beer.

When the customer returned for another carton the next day, it cost just $20. Asked why the price had dropped so dramatically, Remienko replied, "Because you came back."

Betoota Hotel

The Betoota Hotel stands as a timeless monument in the vast Australian outback, its weathered facade telling tales of over a century of history. At 114 years old, it holds the title of being the sole building in the remote outpost of Betoota, a place where time seems to have stood still. Situated along the desolate 390km stretch of road that connects Windorah to Birdsville, this iconic establishment serves as a beacon of civilization in an otherwise barren landscape.

As travelers journey through the rugged terrain of the outback, the sight of the Betoota Hotel offers a sense of comfort and respite. Its walls have witnessed generations of nomads, explorers, and locals passing through, each leaving behind a fragment of their story within its walls. The creaking floorboards and dimly lit interior poolroom evoke a sense of nostalgia, harking back to a bygone era when the hotel was a bustling hub of activity and camaraderie.

Despite its age, the Betoota Hotel continues to stand proudly, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the outback community. Its presence is a reminder of the enduring human connection that transcends time and distance, welcoming weary travelers with open arms and cheaply priced cold beer. In the vast expanse of the Australian wilderness, the Betoota Hotel remains a timeless landmark, a symbol of endurance and hospitality amidst the harsh beauty of the outback.

A fun pronunciation of Betoota is Be-Two-ta. Words meant to be said are in brackets: be (order) too (two beers), ta (thank you).

Traveldriven

DRIVE INNAMINCKA - BETOOTA - BIRDSVILLE