Land selected at Martintown (now Tolga) in 1885 to build the Comercial Hotel continues to support the present day pub.
The original building was destroyed by fire in 1929 and replaced by the contemporary hotel removed from Kureen.
This pub became known as “The Commercial” until its name change to “The Tolga Hotel” in 1973. Tolga is an Aboriginal word for “red mud”.
The township has served as a centre for the timber industry, as a rail head for teamsters carrying to the mineral fields, as an Army Ordinance Depot, and as the centre of the maize and peanut industries.
In its heyday the township supported nine licensed premises.
It is now a favoured residential area, whose “Tolga Hotel” has kept abreast of the expanding tourist industry.
2002 . .
Prior to 2002 the hotel had been leased to operators who unfortunately let the business fall away.
Numbers attending the hotel had fallen away considerably and investment into the future of the hotel was minimal.
Several attempts were made to restore trading levels with the introduction of a Seafood Bistro which had some success but eventually numbers declined again.
From here the pub fell into a derelict state with only one bar operational and a low number of regular customers.
Renovations . . .
In 2002 Rockland Hotels returned as owner managers with a clear plan to restore the Tolga Hotel to its former glory.
Since the change of management there a been a clear message to the residents that the hotel will soon be a key member of the Tolga business community
Rocklands management has spent the past 12 months making minor restorations to the building while exploring the options for the future development of the building and the surrounding land.
There is now a clear plan to take the business forward and make the Tolga Hotel a landmark for the area
Future Plans . .
The hotel will become a functional venue for all the target markets detailed earlier. The theme of the hotel will return it to its heritage with an overall pioneer hotel appearance. Much of this heritage will be seen around the hotel with old photographs source from the local community and displayed throughout the complex. The main bar will be restored and altered to support drive through service while upgrading all equipment to allow the bar to run efficiently and effectively. This bar will be renamed the “Pioneer Bar”.
The lounge facilities will cater for dining requirements as well as a sports bar, TAB and Gaming Machines. This area will be named the “Red Mud Sports Bar”. The restaurant will be named “The Rusty Plough” and have it’s own area to allow customers to dine in comfort. This area will be used also to display artwork on behalf of some of the Tablelands finest artists.
The beer garden will provide a friendly family atmosphere where customers can enjoy a few beers and a meal while their kids play in a safe purpose build enclosure
Future plans include…
* Initial upgrade of the building. ( Completed )
> Paintwork exterior and interior
> Restoration of accommodation facilities
> General repairs and maintenance to the building and surround
> Upgrade of all amenities and Occupation Health & Safety requirements
* Restoration of Main Bar
* Bed & Breakfast accommodation
* Introduction of Gaming Machines
* Beer Garden
> TAB Facilities
> Restaurant
> Kids Play Area
Re furbished main bar has a modern design while keeping the country feel suitable for patrons of all demographics 
Fully landscaped beer garden offering patrons a relaxed atmosphere with kids play area. This will provide a great place to enjoy a family meal or a beer with friends.
