Mate, what have I done? Is the first thought that crossed Dan Toole's mind as he, wife Kathy and kids took over the running of The Family Hotel in Tibooburra from previous owner Peter Petrovic in January 2009.

Today they are loving it!

What changed their mind was the wonderful support they have received from the people of Tibooburra, 1200km inland from either Sydney or Brisbane and 340km from Broken Hill. Tibooburra put the 'out' into the word outback.

Dan, Kathy, Leonie and William Toole arrived in Tibooburra on Saturday 3rd January, 2009.

The Toole family hale from Camira, Ipswich, Queensland and have taken a Desert Change. With two of their five children making Tibooburra their home.

Dan has spent the last 25 years in the timber industry and Kathy managing a furniture making business. Dan was born in Goroka, Papua New Guinea and Kath originates from Bowen.

Leonie is working in the pub each evening and William is doing distance education with Mum Cathy overseeing his schooling.

Dan attended Brisbane Boys Grammar and would love to see his mates visit him for a cold beer!

Dan's brother John Toole has been heading up 4WD tag-along tours of the dessert for the past few years and hopes to visit Dan and Kath often.

See photos of Dan and Kathy's recent trip to Cameron's Corner