The 10 essential elements for any great Aussie pub Callan Boys Photo: Paul Jeffers Ever since the first settlers arrived with a penchant for rum, pubs have been a vital part of Australian culture. Places to nibble Nobby's nuts and swear at the footy; watering holes to swap stories and whack a coin on the pool table. But what is it that makes an Aussie pub uniquely "Aussie"? What makes it "proper"? For many punters, a few taps and a TAB room are all that's needed. For others, just the beer, thanks, and somewhere outdoors to drink it. "In my opinion, a great beer garden is essential for any proper Aussie pub," says Jenna Phillips, licensee of The Oxford Tavern in Petersham, Sydney.