Kangaroo Hotel

The Kangaroo opened its doors in 1856. Starting with a tent, later a timber building was moved here from nearby Fryerstown and a brick structure was erected in the late 1800's. It was a different way of life during the early gold rush days in which there were about 40 pubs in the Maldon area and The Kangaroo has stood the test of time. The Kangaroo also operated as the town morgue, a butcher shop, doctor's office, theatre and Cobb and Co. changing station, with the coach leaving daily at “half past 8pm” for Melbourne and 4 am for local towns such as Dunolly, Ararat and Maryborough. Still below the building is a series of tunnels that were used during the gold rush days to discretely & securely move gold from the Bank onto the coach for transport to Melbourne. Another tunnel was used to take the bodies from the morgue (lounge area) to the Uundertakers across the road. Rumour has it there is a third tunnel used by many men to visit the ladies of the night… We have been serving the community of Maldon for over 150 years. We pride ourselves on continuing the tradition. Affectionately known as 'The Roo', a friendly place where local folk gather. The menu is based on local produce, including wines and meats from Maldon and surrounding goldfields. The area is known for big shiraz and an abundance of Roo.