Kate Kelly

Kate Kelly, mother, outlaw, horsewoman and sister to Australia's most infamous bushranger Edward 'Ned' Kelly was born on July 12th 1863 in Beveridge, Victoria just north of Melbourne. Kate, born Catherine Ada Kelly was the second youngest of the 8 Kelly children. Her father died when young Kate was four, forcing her to help her mother raise the family and later care for her brothers in hiding, the Kelly boys, Ned and Dan. Whilst on the run from Victoria's law enforcement they relied on Kate to run guns, ammo & basic supplies to them in one of their many bush hideaways ensuring she too lived with the Kelly name’s infamy….after the shootout at Glenrowan and Ned’s hanging she eventually ran away with a circus troupe to Adelaide and Sydney dying at the ripe old age of 35 and leaving 5 children behind in 1898.

Contrary to some beliefs there has not been any solid evidence that Kate Kelly ever visited or resided in this locale but her name remains just the same. The original building -now our tavern- was a log cutters cabin built in 1891 for the local timber industry workers. Over the years it has been home to many including the gypsy fortune teller Miss Portelli with her tea room, and is now one of the oldest licensed venues in the state. The tavern area is heritage listed and cannot be altered with the rest being added, renovated and rebuilt over the last 100 years.

At Kelly’s we understand the importance of stocking and supporting local produce and supplies. Hence, where possible we have sourced as much local fare as possible from our coffee, wine, cider and beer to meats, fruit and vegetables. We use a nearby supplier for dry goods and cleaning products as well, as it is not all about the food & wine. Travellers joining us come to expect it and locals rely on it so help us work with our neighbours as you enjoy the fruits of all our labors here at Kelly’s. We are open 7 nights from 5pm & weekends from 11am till late. We have live music Wednesday (open mic), Thursday Trivia, Friday & Saturday nights and can cater to your function/ party needs regardless of the size- just ask! Thanks again for joining us; we hope you enjoy the experience.