ROUSEABOUT was born from a love of regional living. Owners Phoebe and James grew up in Inverell NSW and were high school sweethearts. After studying and working away for a decade, they returned to their hometown to raise their kids and dive headfirst into owning and operating a craft beer bar, acquiring The Welder’s Dog Inverell in 2021. Having successfully run the bar for over 3 years, James and Phoebe have sown even deeper roots, launching their own brand ROUSEABOUT in 2025.

A “rouseabout” is a do-it-all, pitch-in, sleeves up kind of person, a name that fits our team, our culture, and our town. ROUSEABOUT is a nod to the sheering and agricultural heritage of the area, and honours both their grandparents who made their living sheering and farming in Northern New England NSW.

ROUSEABOUT is a bar for everyone. Housed in the historic 1886 Oxford Hotel, the bar has a unique old-world atmosphere. With no gaming or screens, the bar encourages proper connection, guided by great music, beverages and food. The bar hosts a huge range of regular and once-off entertainment options, including our fortnightly trivia and musical bingo, monthly open mic night, quarterly comedy shows, guided art workshops, live performances and more. There are also a range of bookable spaces for large or small gatherings to celebrate your special event.

For more about our story and what’s on offer at ROUSEABOUT, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, or say g’day via email or phone.