A Family of Tough Outback Entrepreneurs
Jo Cranney and Angus Brodie are no strangers to the challenges of life in the Australian outback. Between managing a successful cattle property, selling free-range beef online, and raising two young children—plus another on the way—they’ve found time to take on an additional venture: running a local pub. This new chapter in their lives has been as smooth as the “no worries” attitude they bring to every challenge.
“It’s probably not how I saw my life going, to be honest, especially the owning the pub,” laughs Jo, who used to work as a nurse before transitioning into the world of rural business. The couple recently purchased the Walkabout Creek Hotel, a famous location from the iconic movie Crocodile Dundee.
“We might be a bit silly taking on so much, but we saw it as a great chance to diversify. And it’s going really well so far.”
Both 34 years old, Jo and Angus weren’t even born when Crocodile Dundee first hit Australian screens on April 24, 1986. The film, which cost $8.8 million to produce, went on to earn an impressive $426 million worldwide after its US release.
A Legendary Local Landmark
Angus grew up in McKinlay, Queensland—a town with a population of just 162. Much of the movie was filmed there, and he recalls how surreal it felt to see his hometown featured in the film.
“I can’t remember the first time I saw Crocodile Dundee, but everyone around here grew up with it,” he says. “It’s quite surreal, I suppose, to watch our tiny town for the first 15 minutes of the movie.”
The Walkabout Creek Hotel, which was originally called the Federal Hotel in 1900, became a key location in the film. The movie set still sits in the beer garden, and the famous “Never Never Safari” truck is parked outside.
After its last owners decided to retire, the hotel stayed on the market for several years. Then, in November, Angus and Jo stepped in, purchasing the venue as part of their growing family business.
A Country Party to Celebrate 40 Years
The couple is currently preparing for a special event on September 25 and 26 to mark the 40th anniversary of the film’s global release. They’re planning a “good old-fashioned country party” that will include live music, food stalls, and a best-dressed Mick Dundee contest.
“We’ve got our hands full with everything we’ve taken on, but the pub really complements our two other businesses,” says Jo, who hails from Goondiwindi, a more populated area compared to McKinlay.
The Barnyard Band, which headlined the Mount Isa Rodeo this year, has already been booked for the event. There will also be children’s entertainment, food stalls, and new merchandise available for sale.
One thing won’t be making an appearance at the celebration: crocodiles. “We’re a long way away from any crocs, so no one needs to be alarmed by that,” jokes Jo, while wrangling her daughter Louie and toddler Jimmy.
A Unique Lifestyle in the Outback
McKinlay is a remote location, located 17 hours north-west from Brisbane and 650km west of Townsville. Despite its isolation, Jo and Angus find the lifestyle appealing.
“A lot of people ask about the isolation, but I love getting to raise my children and work with my husband by my side,” says Jo, looking out the window at the lush green hills following recent rains.
“It’s really special and the people up here are really genuine. They go out of their way to help with anything. So it’s a really fun place to live.”
Angus adds that the response to their purchase of the pub has been overwhelming, especially from locals. “It’s the meeting place for the town and surrounding properties, so I’ve been coming here my whole life. It’s cool to say it’s ours now.”
They hope many people will make the trip to McKinlay for the Crocodile Dundee celebration in September.
