Tell us about your business.
The Prairie Hotel began its life in 1876 when a public licence was first issued at the tiny railway siding of Parachilna, servicing the Blinman copper mines and the overland stock routes of South Australia’s outback.
In 1905, the present stone hotel and its outbuildings were constructed, replacing the earlier timber-and-iron building. For much of the 20th century, the Prairie was a classic bush pub, a watering hole for jackaroos, truckies, miners and travellers drawn by its cold beer and honest outback hospitality.
In 1991, fourth-generation Flinders Ranges pastoralist and cattleman Ross Fargher and his wife Jane bought their “local.” With deep roots in the region (the Fargher family first settled in the Flinders Ranges in the 1860s), the couple set about reimagining the Prairie, transforming it from a rustic outback pub into a world-renowned destination that blends luxury accommodation, fine food, craft beer, wine and authentic outback character.
Today, the Prairie Hotel stands as an unexpected oasis on the edge of the Flinders Ranges, a place where red desert plains meet ancient blue skies, and where visitors can enjoy unique experiences like the Parachilna Brew Project, showcasing locally inspired craft beers and native ingredients.
Ross and Jane continue to manage both the Prairie Hotel and their historic Nilpena Station, which sits at the heart of the Nilpena–Ediacara National Park, home to one of the world’s most important collections of Ediacaran fossils, dating back more than 550 million years.
Their sons Lachy Fargher, with his partner Ellie, and Eddie Fargher, with his partner Kelly, have become an integral part of this continuing story, helping to steer the hotel, the station, and their shared tourism and conservation ventures into the future.
Together, the Fargher family has created a truly iconic Australian experience, one defined by genuine warmth, a strong family ethos, and a commitment to quality and authenticity that continually exceeds expectations.
What has been your greatest success?
Our greatest success has been transforming the Prairie Hotel, a once remote, near-forgotten outback pub, into an understated international landmark that celebrates the spirit of the Flinders Ranges and the warmth of genuine country hospitality.
Over three decades, our family has poured heart and soul into re-imagining the Prairie as a destination that blends fine food, architecture, art, and storytelling with the rugged beauty of the ancient Flinders Ranges. From the creation of our “Flinders Feral Food” menu — recognised among Australia’s Top 100 Gourmet Experiences — to the development of the Prairie Outback Lodge and our on-site microbrewery, Parachilna Brew Project, each chapter has honoured our history while creating something extraordinary in the middle of nowhere.
More than the accolades, our success lies in the people and the place. In welcoming guests from across Australia & around the world, and watching them discover the Prairie Hotel & its surrounds.
What do you value about FBA?
We joined Family Business Association as we entered a new transition period, navigating succession, leadership change, and the evolution of a multi-generational legacy. We recognised that while running a family business is incredibly rewarding, it can also be uniquely challenging, and we wanted to learn from those who have gone before us.
FBA has provided an invaluable opportunity to gain new perspectives, connect with others who understand the complexities of working with family, and access support as we plan for the future. What we value most is the sense of community and being surrounded by people in similar situations, learning from their experiences, and staying connected despite our remote location.
For us, FBA reminds us that we’re not alone in this journey and that family business, at its best, is about shared learning, legacy, and support.
What advice would you give to other family businesses?
Stay true to your story, it’s your greatest strength.
Family business is about far more than profit; it’s about purpose, pride, and people. Invest in the next generation early — not just financially, but by empowering them to contribute their own ideas and energy. For us, the successful transition of our son Lachy as Head Brewer and his partner Ellie as General Manager has ensured our legacy continues to evolve while remaining grounded in family values. Embrace change, but never lose sight of what makes your story uniquely yours. Whether in the middle of a city or the middle of the outback, authenticity and heart are what make a family business truly unforgettable.
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