Mataranka Hotel Motel

Established in 1929 by pioneering publican Nellie "Ma" Fisher, it has been a central gathering place for locals and travellers for nearly a century.

Ma Fisher arrived in the NT in 1917 and became one of the Territory's most colourful publicans. After operating boarding houses near Darwin and at the Mataranka rail-head, she successfully obtained a hotel licence in 1929. The hotel quickly became one of the best-known small pubs outside Darwin, famous for its warm hospitality and "clean, wholesome and smartly served tucker".

Today, the Mataranka Hotel Motel remains a popular stop for visitors exploring the region, including the nearby Mataranka Thermal Pools. It offers a relaxed outback pub atmosphere with a public bar, food service, and gaming facilities including pokies, Keno, darts, and TV entertainment, as well as regular neon disco nights. Takeaway alcohol is also available.

A true Northern Territory landmark, it continues to combine pioneer history with classic outback hospitality.