Every bite tells a story | The beating heart of Toolamba since 1912

Not just for its delicious meals, but for the nostalgia and connections it evokes.

For us, that place is the Junction Hotel in Toolamba.

Situated in the heart of town, this family-owned pub has been welcoming guests with hearty meals, cold drinks and warm hospitality since 1912.

From the moment you arrive, there’s a sense of genuine welcome.

On the night we visited, the car park was packed, the fireplace was glowing, and the pub was buzzing with families, sporting groups, couples and friends.

It quickly became clear why bookings are essential on a Saturday night — the place was absolutely pumping.

We were part of a lively group that added even more colour to the evening.

Good friends Cathy O’Sullivan and Jim Marx turned heads in their beautifully co-ordinated cream and earthy tones — so stylish we all had to comment.

(The only thing missing was a tie!)

Joining us were Loretta Mitchell and Donna and Geoff O’Sullivan, making it the perfect outing among friends.

That’s the thing about the Junction Hotel — it suits everyone, whether you’re part of a group, a couple out for dinner, or dining solo.

The staff handled the busy evening with calm efficiency.

Drinks arrived quickly, and the menu had something for everyone.

Think traditional pub fare — parmas, steaks, burgers — along with a few modern dishes and thoughtful vegetarian and gluten-free options.

The wine list features local producers, proudly acknowledged on the menu, which is a lovely touch.

What makes this place particularly special for us, though, are the deep family ties and community history connected to it.

Our beloved Aunty ‘Bub’ (Violet) Williams ran the Junction Hotel from 1946 to 1959.

Small in stature but mighty in spirit, Bub was a trailblazer — a woman ahead of her time.

She was fearless, unconventional and unapologetically bold at a time when women were expected to stay in the background.

Bub led with strength and clarity.

She didn’t just live through history — she shaped it.

Locals still say that without Bub, the Toolamba Football Club may have folded.

She was not only president but the unofficial coach, a natural leader and a trusted adjudicator when disputes arose.

She often took on the role of the local police officer.

Following her publican life, she ran Mrs Williams’ Frock Shop in the Star Bowl arcade alongside her daughter-in-law, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurship and community care.

Another personal connection is in the details: the beautiful leadlight front doors of the pub, handcrafted by the late Don Preece, father and father-in-law of our dear friends Kev and Donna Preece.

It’s these touches — small or large — that make places like the Junction Hotel feel important, memorable and ours.

Big changes are on the horizon, too.

With a kitchen renovation under way, the Junction will soon be equipped to serve hundreds more meals.

Keep an eye out for upcoming events and live music — it’s only getting better.

As for the food?

Every dish was a hit: perfectly cooked 300g scotch fillets, a fantastic mixed grill, pillowy melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi, honey mustard chicken, and of course, the quintessential chicken parma.

We rounded out the evening watching the last quarter of the footy, relaxed and content.

So, here’s to trailblazing women, skilled craftspeople, shared meals, great company — and yes, matching outfits.

Cheers to the Junction Hotel, Toolamba.

Open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday noon to 2.30pm and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday 6pm til late.

Food pricing for Junction Hotel rated by Jan and Paul: $$

(Expensive $$$, moderate $$, good value $).