The Bull & Barley Inn in Cambooya is a heritage pub that dates back to 1902, originally known as the Cambooya Railway Hotel. Positioned near the railway line, it served as a vital stop for travelers and locals alike.
In 1978, it was renamed the Bull & Barley Inn, and today it stands as the sole remaining pub in Cambooya, preserving its legacy as a community cornerstone. The inn is an example of colonial-style architecture design, with its prominent corner-block location and wraparound verandahs. The design gives that classic country pub aesthetics.
Inside, the atmosphere is steeped in early 20th-century charm, featuring historic photographs and a beautifully restored 1930s cedar chiller box that adds to its vintage appeal.
Cambooya itself carries literary significance as the former home of Steele Rudd (Arthur Hoey Davis), the author of the iconic Dad ‘n’ Dave stories. I had become aware of the history of Steele Rudd after first visiting Rudd’s Pub in Nobby 
, and have since found several Steele Rudd related brown signs.
The pub is a popular location and had already exceeded its bookings limit for lunch when we arrived. The bar was still serving cold beer and a picnic table across the road if you have your own lunch. The park is an alternative stop with picnic tables that I suggested to use instead of the scenic lookout at Hodgson Vale .
