Brisbane Couple Trades City Life for Outback Pub Dream in Silverton

Liz Murphy and Norm Matau, a couple in their 50s from Brisbane, have embarked on a significant career and lifestyle change. After working a combined 60 years as a theatre nurse and pastry chef/carpenter, respectively, they initially purchased a caravan with the intention of traveling across Australia. During their travels, they learned that the historic Silverton Hotel in far west New South Wales was available for sale, leading them to acquire the lease and relocate to Silverton in early March.

Despite the demanding hours of running the pub, Ms. Murphy stated that she experiences more personal freedoms, such as the ability to take breaks, and enjoys interacting with patrons.

Both Mr. Matau's carpentry work and Ms. Murphy's nursing career had led to physical discomfort and impacts, prompting their decision to seek alternative employment that was less physically taxing. Retirement was not an immediate option for the couple. For Mr. Matau, who had immigrated from New Zealand 30 years prior, the opportunity to explore rural and regional areas was particularly appreciated, given his limited prior travel opportunities in Australia.

The Path to Silverton's Historic Hotel

Ms. Murphy had a prior interest in visiting Silverton due to its unique landscape, free-roaming donkeys, and its connection to the film Mad Max 2. The opportunity to purchase the hotel arose serendipitously during a dinner with friends in Adelaide, one of whom was a hotel broker. They met with the previous owners, Peter and Patsy Price, who had operated the Silverton Hotel for 16 years and were ready to retire. An agreement was reached for Ms. Murphy and Mr. Matau to take over.

Embracing a Renewed Sense of Purpose

The couple returned to Brisbane to pack their belongings before making the final move to Silverton. Ms. Murphy reports a renewed sense of purpose from engaging with patrons, while Mr. Matau enjoys the more relaxed pace of life in the town.

The outgoing owners, Peter and Patsy Price, confirmed that Silverton's iconic free-roaming donkeys, which they co-own with Petah Devine, will remain in the town as a local attraction.