Billinudgel Hotel, Meet Ma Ring

Ma Ring

Mar Ring got her nickname along time ago . It came about partly because she had been at the only hotel in Billinudgel for so long. Mar took up the licence in 1929, arriving from Barcaldine where she had been a partner in a Hotel. For many years later all the stock arrived by Rail. Almost every parcel was addresed simply with initials M.A.R.

The name stuck and most people in town had forgotten that her real name was Margaret Alice Ring. It was something of a tradition at the New Brighton that Mar took up her position in the quaint little Saloon Bar around 5 and the locals would vie for the honour of buying her a glass of beer. (mullumbimby star)

The painting of Mar Ring which hangs over the bar

When Bob hawke was president of the ACTU he visited the Pub and Mar gave him a twenty minute lecture on how to serve a good beer. Short pull and clean pipes.

An ardent card player, Mar gave her unique style to the watering hole which still bears her name. Her MBE, awarded in 1971 was recognition of her support for the Ambulance, Red Cross and School of Arts Hall. Mar continued as licensee until her death in 1983 aged 101.

Lots of Memories on the wall to see

Mar's 100th birthday was the biggest crowd the Pub had ever seen

She gained national acclaim as the oldest Hotel licensee in Australia and possibly the world. The Billinudgel Hotel as it is now known has old newspaper clippings and pictures adorning the walls for those that are interested in finding out more about the life of this remarkable Lady who I am sure is just happy to be remebered as Mar, the Publican who provided good beer and service for her customers.

Doug Anthony arrives to
congratulate Mar Ring