Your Hunter Valley Blackboard July 2018

The No.1 magazine for visitors to Hunter Valley Wine Country | JULY 2018 | ISSUE #137

Tyrrell s Wines 160 YEARS IN THE MAKING

WHAT’S ON IN WINTER

CHEFS COOKING UP A STORM

MEET THE MAKER

SNOW TIME IN THE GARDEN

HUNTER VALLEY

CHEESE FACTORY

HUNTER VALLEY VINEYARDS BOUTIQUE CHEESERY Regional Hunter Valley Cheesemakers “making” artisan handmade cheese to compliment the world renown local wine varietals.

• Exclusive House Range of regional and housemade selection of oils, olives, chutneys, conserves and dressings.

• Cheeserooms open daily for cheese tastings and lunches or charcuterie and regional produce tasting/purchases.

• Hot/Cold Beverages & Wine available to enjoy with your tasting or cheeseboard.

• Educational Cheesemaking Tutorial and a tasting of our highly

awarded Hunter Gold Washed Rind on the day. Complimentary at 11am and 3pm daily.

ARTISIAN AUSTRALIAN CHEESEMAKERS Located at Mcguigan Wine Complex 447 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin PH 4998 7744

www.huntervalleycheese.com.au

BLACKBOARD

IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH...

JULY

A WORD FROM THE EDITORS

PUBLISHED BY: WCP Media ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: PH +61 2 4943 2888 HunterValleyOnline.com.au enquiries@wcpmedia.com.au WCP MEDIA Level 1, 216 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown, NSW 2290 JULY 2018 Cover Photo by Hannah Rose Robinson.

Copyright © 2018 WCP Media.

Published monthly by WCP Media.

All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, WCP Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE From 1st July 2018 until the 31st July 2018 inclusive, or while stocks last.

GET MOBILE! View this month’s issue of Your Hunter Valley Blackboard on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Simply download the QR Code and get mobile!

Tyrrell’s Wines is celebrating its 160th year in 2018 – a milestone that is remarkable for any business, let alone a family business. Despite being the fourth generation of the Tyrrell’s family business, current CEO Bruce Tyrrell says he never felt a sense of expectation around joining the family business.

This month we caught up with Bruce to talk milestones, legacies and family – with a bit of winemaking thrown in! You can read our full cover story on page 16.

The Hunter Valley wine culture has inspired a strong food culture and vice versa. The two simply go hand in hand, so it’s no coincidence that some of the best restaurants in the world happen to be located in some of the finest wine-growing regions.

Understanding just why the Hunter has become one of the nation’s most exciting culinary destinations is easy – it’s the Chefs of course!

This month we take a peek behind the kitchen doors to learn more about the Head Chefs orchestrating this culinary charge and taking dining excitement to the next level.

You may be in wine country, but there will be no whining this school holidays – with a plethora of fun

11 6

activities for kids big and small! Check out our handy guide to local activities on page 28.

Spin around the ice at the ice skating rink, whizz down the 40m ice slide on top of a toboggan tube or indulge in some snowman building fun as part of everyone’s favourite wintery celebration - in Pokolbin of course! Who needs an eight-hour drive to the snowfields (punctuated by ‘are we there yet’), when you have Snow Time in the Garden at Hunter Valley Gardens on your doorstep.

The Olive Tree Market will be making its way to the Maitland Regional Art Gallery this month for it’s seasonal ‘Winter Pop-Up.’ Drop in and meet the talented creative community, enjoy live entertainment and gourmet artisan produce, we’ve listed some of our faves on page 14.

It never hurts to learn a little more about the history of this beautiful area and so this month we find out how Wine Country landmark Potters Hotel Brewery Resort has been transformed from terracotta pottery kilns to the masterpiece it is today!

Enjoy!

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What’s in this

Issue?

What's on in July & August

4

Hot in the Hunter

10

Pop Along to Olive Tree in Maitland

14

160 Years of Tyrrell's Wines

16

Hosting a Cracking Wine Party 101 20

28

YES, CHEF!

Your Hunter Valley Map

24

32

How Did Potter's Get it's Name

34

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What's

ON

Events not to miss in the Hunter Valley Region

FIND THE LATEST EVENTS ONLINE AT HUNTERVALLEYONLINE.COM.AU

JULY Picnic with the Tigers At Luskintyre Airfield

SAT 7 JULY Luskintyre Airfield and Aviation Museum is the home of the Tiger Moth, and the majority of the aircraft on the airfield are vintage. In fact, Luskintyre is home to the most operational Tiger Moths in one place on the planet. There are also many other special aircraft including older Piper’s, Yak’s, and the infamous Breezy.

On the first Saturday of each month, Luskintyre Airfield hosts “Picnics with the Tigers” to enable visitors to see the Tiger Moths in action. Pack a picnic lunch, rally the kids and enjoy all the action in the sky. For more information visit www.luskintyreairfield.com.au

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

At Cessnock Performing Arts Centre WED 11 JULY Based on Eric Carle’s books The Very Hungry Caterpillar is one of the most-read and famous children’s books of all time, emerging off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for the whole family.

Journey through Eric Carle’s incredible stories as they come to life on stage in this enchanting show.

For more information and tickets visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au

Legends of the Past and Present Exhibition At Morpeth Art Gallery

THURS 12 - SUN 15 JULY Legends of the past, d’Arcy Doyle and Kevin Best painted the Australian bush with skill and are both household names for their nostalgic main street settings featuring children at play and traditional landscape paintings. Legends of the present, artists John Bradley and Ian Hansen paint some of Australia’s early steam trains and ships.

In this exhibition these legends come together at Morpeth Gallery to delight visitors with their keen eye for detail and their ability to connect with our traditional landscapes. For more information visit www.morpethgallery.com

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Disney's Aladdin JR

At Cessnock Performing Arts Centre FRI 20 + SAT 21 JULY Presented by the award winning, Hunter Drama, Disney’s Aladdin JR. is sure to send you soaring on a flying carpet ride, filled with romance and adventure! Lago, Jafar, the Genie are all here for a musical adventure filled with magic, mayhem, dazzling costumes and the power of love, plus hit songs including Friend Like Me, Prince Ali and A Whole New World. There are three performances over two days, for tickets visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au

JULY

Markets

Hunter Valley Cheese + Chocolate Festival At Hope Estate

SAT 14 JULY Hope Estate is bringing two of the Hunter Valleys greatest passions together for a day of fine food! The 2018 Hunter Valley Chocolate & Cheese Festival will showcase the talents of many local and national cheese makers, bakers, chocolatiers and gourmet foodies.

Plus you can see demonstrations by the internationally renown Callebaut Chefs, displays, and competitions! Alongside this will be wine and craft beer from the local area, and a kiddies area. The event runs from 10am – 5pm, tickets start from $25 for adults, $10 for under 18's and is free for those under 12. For more information, visit www.hopeestate.com.au

Handmade In The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines JULY 7, 14, 21 + 28

Winter Twilight Markets At Crowne Plaza

JULY 7 (2pm - 5.30pm)

Wollombi Village Markets At Wollombi Village JULY 8

Olive Tree Markets At Maitland Regional Art Gallery JULY 14

Winery Running Festival At The Vintage

SUN 22 JULY Enjoy running past world famous vineyards and resorts in one of Australia's most visited wine regions by competing in the Winery Run! Competitors can run or walk any event and enjoy the convenience of the start and finish lines in the same area at The Vintage, located in Pokolbin. Alongside the running action will be a sport and local produce expo, plus family entertainment on offer to help keep the kids entertained.

Race events include the Winery Marathon (42.2km), Half Marathon (21.1km), Winery 10km, Winery Wander 6km and 2k Kids Marathon. Entry costs are $35 for 2k Kids Marathon, $65 adult/ $45 kids for 6km, $80 adult/ $60 child for 10km, $105 for Half Marathon and $140 for the Full Marathon (these two are adults only). For more information or to enter visit www.wineryrun.com

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Nan's Neighbours Feast At Nanna Kerr's Kitchen

FRI 27 JULY Join the team at Nanna Kerr's Kitchen for Nan's Neighbours Feast, a relaxed and enjoyable dinner on the last Friday of each month! This will be a night focused on great food, good company and your favourite wine that you bring along.

Tickets are $49, and include BYO wine and a three course set menu dinner with plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans or any other dietary requirement. Their neighbours, Macquariedale Organic Wines, will be open until 6.30pm so you can do some tasting and purchase some wines before dinner.

For tickets and more information, visit www.kerrsorganic.com.au

Winter School Holiday Activities At Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley SAT 7 - SUN 22 JULY Looking for a way to entertain the kids these school holidays?

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley has so many activities on offer, it will be hard to choose!

Daily events include the Dancing Water Fountain Lights (6pm + 9pm), Crowne Cinema (5pm - 7pm) and Kangaroo Spotting Tours (8am - 8.30am). Crowne's Kidzone will also be open daily, with train rides, a carousel, a games room and the Water Dragons Kids Club - all supervised!

Kids can also enter a world of magic with the Harry Potter High Tea on July 14 + 20, and construct their own mini-burger to demolish for lunch at the Lego Long Lunch on July 21. Girls (or boys!) can be pampered with Ubika Spa and have their nails painted (11th) or learn haircare and style (18th, ages 7+).

Other events include Playdough Activities (9th + 17th), a Flower Crowne Workshop (15th), Build (and enjoy) a Pizza (10th + 16th), Cupcake Decorating (19th) and finally Disney Family Trivia (9th + 19th).

Most of the activities are $10 to $15, with the lunch events up to $29 for kids; some activities require adult supervision.

For full details and to book your spot, phone 4991 0944 or visit www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au/ hunter-valley and navigate your way to the Winter School Holidays page.

S M T W T F S

Seafood and BBQ Cooking Class At Potter's Brewery

SAT 28 JULY Run by The BBQ Cooking School, these monthly travelling BBQ classes will have you impressing friends and family in no time! Discover how to get the best out of your BBQ and seafood by learning cooking and marinating techniques and timing as well as presentation. Matching wines will accompany your creation while you enjoy your four-course meal afterwards! This class is $125pp, running from 11.30am - 2.30pm at the fantastic Potter's Brewery.

Visit www.bbqschool.com.au to book.

The Coal & Allied Singleton Art Prize At Singleton Civic Centre

FRI 27 - TUE 31 JULY From its humble beginnings over 36 years ago, the Singleton Art Prize has become one of the most prestigious and largest regional art prizes in NSW, featuring a prize pool of over $20k.

An average of 800 visitors pass through the doors over five days to see (and buy) up to 650 paintings from up-and-coming Australian artists. For more information visit www.singletononhunterrotary.org.au

Hunter Valley

Reflections Day Spa COUPLES DELIGHT PACKAGE

2 x 50 min Relaxation Massages, 2 x ExpressFacials, 2 x Foot Massages, Finish with wine and chocolates.

$300 (normally $428) *T&C Apply

•Massage • Facials • Body Treatments • Pedicures/ Manicures •Hens Parties •Spa Packages at Adina Vineyard 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

OPEN 7 Days PH 4930 9006 • www.reflectionsdayspa.com.au

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AUGUST

Markets

AUGUST Made by Mike - Cork & Pork Winery Lunch At De Iuliis Winery

Handmade In The Hunter Markets At Kevin Sobels Wines AUGUST 11 + 25

SAT 4 AUGUST A fun filled festival-style lunch with gourmet food, cooking demonstrations, wine blending, live music and butchery workshops.

Special bottles by MadebyMike will be dragged out of the cellar to top off a perfect afternoon.

Tickets are $150 and are jam packed with food, wine and demonstrations, or for members only $125. Kids aged 4 - 12 are $25.

For more information or to book, visit www.dewine.com.au

Broke Village Market

Winter Feast

At McNamara Park AUGUST 5

At Vines Restaurant, Hollydene SAT 4 AUGUST Vines Restaurant at Hollydene will be hosting a magical night filled with wine, great music, dancing and an indulgent feast!

Ticket are $75 per person, including a glass of mulled wine, canapés, a main meal and dessert.

Full payment is required at the time of booking. To purchase your ticket, please call 6576 4007.

Wollombi Village Markets At Wollombi Village AUGUST 12

Cheers Bus

Hunter Valley Guided Winery Tours

Secure your online booking and tour information at www.cheersbus.com • Full or half day, private or public guided boutique tours in an air conditioned mini bus or hire car, seven days per week • Pick up from your local vineyard accommodation or group pickups only from Sydney (via Morisset train station), Central Coast, Newcastle, Maitland and Singleton areas and be escorted throughout the day • Witness the beauty and tranquillity of Hunter Wine Country on route to our or your chosen boutique cellar doors, brewhouse tastings, as well as vodka, schnapps, cheese, olive and chocolate tastings Photo taken at Ivanhoe Vineyard

Shop 3, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Phone 4998 6888 • Open 7 Days

www.cheersbus.com • Call John on 0408 987 057

Wine Glass Gallery Because great wine deserves a great wine glass

• Largest range of wine glasses in the Hunter Valley • Original artworks - all well priced • Amazing selection of colourful glass platters, vases and ornaments • Amusing collector teapots • Jewellery, seasonal scarves and handbags • Australian and Hunter Valley T-shirts and souvenirs Over 3,000 colourful eclectic products to choose from... Come and enjoy a friendly Hunter Valley Experience!

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Pooch Picnic

At Pepper Tree Wines SUN 12 AUGUST Pepper Tree Wines invites you and your furry friends to join them for the Annual Pooch Picnic on their luscious grounds adjacent to the cellar door.

The dog friendly, fun-filled picnic day will include training demonstrations and trick shows by The Wonderdogs. Wine, food and coffee will be available for purchase, as well as indulgent treats for your four-legged friend.

Entry is by gold coin donation, to be donated to Dog Rescue Newcastle. All social dogs are welcome; however, they must be on a leash. Oh and don't forget to bring your dog tidy bags!

For more information, visit www.peppertreewines.com.au

Maitland Aroma Coffee & Chocolate Festival

At Riverside Carpark, Central Maitland SAT 11 - SUN 12 AUGUST It's time to ward off the winter chill with the return of the Maitland Aroma Coffee and Chocolate Festival, and enjoy a celebration of winter comforts featuring some of the Hunter's finest baristas, roasters and chocolatiers.

This fine food affair will include an interesting and diverse demonstration program, which will see local experts sharing their knowledge and expertise on the leading styles of coffee and chocolate and their uses at home.

The event will host over 80 stalls featuring quality coffee, decadent chocolate, gourmet comfort food and produce. There will also be a line up of roving performers and musicians on the Crema stage, as well as interactive activities and much more to enjoy.

This festival of the senses sees the riverside come alive from 10am - 4pm on both days. We guarantee it will be hard to resist the temptation of rich melted chocolate or the smell of freshly ground coffee beans as you pass by. Entry to the festival is free.

For more information, visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au

Morpeth Antique Centre Discover 25 dealers

and The Servant’s Quarters Tearoom, all under one roof.

All things Ancient, Antique, Vintage, Retro, Heirloom, Collectable.

Hunter Valley

Trail Rides for Beginners and Experienced Riders Pony Rides • Spectacular Valley Views • Weddings on Horseback Picnics • BBQ’s • Breakfast Rides • Family Rides • Personalised Rides Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails • Sunset Rides • Kangaroos Sulky Rides • Tractor Hay Rides to Feed the Animals!

Kangaroo and Native Wildlife Spotting at Night Time. Leaves at Sunset.

Pedal Go Karts for ages 5 - 99 years. Lots of fun!

Winter is a wonderful time to go horse riding. Stay and have a BBQ and when the weather permits sit around the fire.

OPEN 10am – 5pm, Thursday to Sunday & most public holidays 175 Swan Street, Morpeth, Hunter Valley PH 02 4933 1407 E info@morpethgallery.com www.morpethantiquecentre.com

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FINALIST

For Bookings Phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008 Stay & play at Hilltop, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale

of the Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards 2016

So close to all of Wine Countrys attractions, yet you feel a million miles away..

Drag Queen Bingo & Dinner At Nanna Kerr's Kitchen

FRI 10 AUGUST Come along to Nanna Kerr's Kitchen for a glamorous evening full of laughs with Timberlina and some great food!

Your evening will begin at 6:30pm with a glass of house wine, draught beer or cider with Timberlina kicking off the evening with some entertainment.

Tickets are $49, including three games of bingo with $150 worth of prizes to be won, entertainment, a delicious pasta for main and Panna Cotta or Chocolate Fondant for dessert served by the fabulous Nanna Kerr's Kitchen. A night full of laughs and fun!

Fireside Tasting

At Stomp! Wines, Lovedale SAT 18 AUGUST Rug up in your cosiest gear and enjoy an outdoors tasting experience by the fireside at Stomp! Wines.

You'll enjoy the new release Stomp! Limited Release 2018 Fiano, which was blended by members at the annual Stomp!

Festival, as well as the new Pssst 'n' Broke 2018 RosĂŠ, Tawny and the long awaited release of the Stomp! Wine Muscat. There will also be a sneak preview of 2017 and 2018 reds.

While you are relaxing in front of the fire, why not share a charcuterie board or even toast some marshmallows to finish off the night. Tickets are $25 per person, or $20 for members.

Payment is required at the time of booking and is non-refundable.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please call Meredith on 0409 774 280.

Grab your friends and come along to enjoy what is sure to be an eventful and exciting evening.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.kerrsorganic.com.au

Australian Bee Gees Show At Cessnock Performing Arts Centre

THUR 23 AUGUST Presented by the Harbour Agency, The Australian Bee Gees Show will be heading down under for the Australian leg of their 2018 'Direct from Vegas' world tour.

The Australian Bee Gees Show celebrates 21 years of performing on the world stage. From London's West End to the dazzling Las Vegas strip, they have played over 6500 shows in over 60 countries, cementing their reputation as an exceptional live concert act and the world's leading Bee Gees Show.

For one night only, the magic arrives at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre - we are sure you won't want to miss this live celebration of wonderful music by the Gibb Brothers!

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit

Hunter Valley Resort Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin (02) 49987777 sales@HunterResort.com.au www.HunterResort.com.au

www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au

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WHAT'S HOT IN THE

Hunter A New Mystery...

To celebrate the recent World Gin Day, Hunter Distillery released a stunning new colour-changing spirit called 'Mystery Gin.' Vibrant purple/blue in colour, Mystery Gin changes to shades of pink with the addition of tonic water, making it great for cocktail mixing!

Mystery Gin is sweet and fruity to taste, with an overtone of blood orange. It can be enjoyed neat, with tonic water (especially a dry tonic), and in fruit tingle style cocktails perfect for any celebration!

A visit to the Hunter Distillery is a must when in the Hunter Valley, and we are sure you will want to give this new release a try!

BURGERS AND BEERS at Harrigans If eating a delicious, mouth-watering burger then washing it down with a delicious cold one is your idea of heaven then Harrigans Irish Pub can turn this to reality with their Thursday Burger and Beer Night.

You can grab a delicious burger and a pint of beer from their large selection of beers on tap, for only $22.

WHERE Harrigans Irish Pub, Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 Days; Dinner from 5:30pm - 9pm PH 4998 4300 E enquiries@harrigans.com.au www.harrigans.com.au

WHERE Hunter Distillery, 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin. OPEN 7 days 10am - 5pm. Bookings essential for groups over 10. PH 4998 6737 www.hunterdistillery.com.au

Hunter Valley

Chocolate Company EST. 1999 WINE COUNTRY DRIVE NULKABA

BRASSERIE

BAR

BREWERY

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 19 years.

ACCOMMODATION

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!

Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm. Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin: CONFERENCE

FUNCTIONS

WEDDINGS

Ph (02) 4991 7922 | www.pottershbr.com.au E info@pottershbr.com.au

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Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road Peterson House – Broke Road Hunter Valley Gardens – Shop 5, HVG, Broke Road

www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au

JOIN US FOR 3 HUGE WEEKS OF WINTERY FUN!

WINTER SPECIAL! Even though we are in the middle of the winter months, we are still experiencing some of the most breathtaking sunrises in the Hunter Valley!

Balloon Aloft are offering an incredible winter special that is too good to pass up! Purchase a Hunter Valley Flight Voucher for only $249 per person (was $319) or a Hunter Valley Flexi Voucher for $269 per person (was $339) and hop aboard a sunrise balloon flight over the beautiful Hunter Valley Vineyards that is sure to have you mesmerised.

After sharing the magic of the balloon flight, you will be able to celebrate your exciting adventure with a delicious Champagne Breakfast at Restaurant Cuvee at Peterson House. Also included is an E-Photobook voucher to create your own digital photo book of your flight adventure.

This offer is for a limited time only so make sure you don't miss out! Visit www.balloonaloft.com to book and for all terms and conditions.

ON NOW UNTIL 22 JULY NOW OPEN!

Cupcake Espresso

Have you heard the exciting news? The ultimate cupcake lover's destination has arrived at the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village!

Cupcake Espresso is now open and offering a range of mouth-watering desserts and delicious fresh light meals to enjoy.

There is a cupcake for everyone to indulge in with flavours including Salted Caramel, Crunchie, Lemon Meringue and even the traditional favourite, Vanilla Bean. They also offer a range of gluten free cupcakes that are available daily.

These moorish cupcakes are availble for purchase in beautiful gift boxes of six or twelve, or you can just treat yourself to one or two with your coffee.

WHERE Cupcake Espresso, Shop 2b, Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, Pokolbin. OPEN Mon to Sat 9am - 5pm; Sun 10am - 5pm.

PH 0420 761 646 www.cupcakeespresso.com.au

Glide on our giant ice skating rink, slide down our mega ice toboggan and build a snowman in our man-made Snow Play Zone. Enjoy our awesome rides*, which include our Super Slide, 25 metre Ferris Wheel, speedy Swing Chair and traditional Venetian Carousel. Plus, roving entertainment, hearty food and warming beverages. There’s wintery fun for everyone!

02 4998 4000 - Broke Rd Pokolbin - hvg.com.au Admission charges apply. Program subject to change. Snow Time activities are open during event hours only. Some activities may not open in adverse weather conditions and for unscheduled maintenance. Terms and conditions of entry apply. Swing Chair and HVG Super Slide - 110cm-120cm must ride with an adult, 120cm and above may ride alone. *Rides are user pay.

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Meet the Maker

Classy Coolers

WORDS Michelle Meehan

The Hunter is known for its premium wines and growing range of craft ales – but one local woman is hoping to extend that reputation to the items helping keep our top drops cool.

Debbie Baxter is the creative force behind Classy Coolers, a locallybased business that sells stylishly designed and handcrafted drink coolers. Whether you’re looking for a solution to keep your bottle of beer cold or a unique way to set your wine glass apart from the crowd, Classy Coolers have got you (and your drink) covered.

While the business has been around for quite a while, Debbie took over the reins two years ago while looking for a home-based source of income.

“I bought the business off my friend in 2016, and I started selling Classy Coolers at the beginning of 2017, but Classy Coolers were a part of the Handmade in the Hunter Market for a few years prior,” Debbie said.

“My illness doesn’t allow me to hold a five day a week job sadly and I wanted to have something I could do from home. I make everything myself, and I have also added quite a few new designs to the range, including a wine glass cooler I designed.”

A far cry from the novelty stubby holders gathering dust in eskies and garages across the country, Classy Coolers are championed as serving “the stylish women of the world”, offering affordable, designer coolers in a range of patterns and styles.

Aside from the typical can coolers, the range also includes products specially designed to slip over wine glasses and champagne flutes, as well as an oversized option that can perfectly accommodate a standard wine bottle.

Gift sets are also available with matching wine bottle and wine glass coolers, which make a perfect present for those who enjoy tasting the fruits of the Hunter Valley’s vines.

Patterns range from a dramatic black and white damask to a pretty pale paisley design, as well as feathers, flowers, peacocks, leopard prints and more, with diamante details adding a special final touch.

“I design all my own designs now, and I’m 100 per cent hands-on as I make all my products. I wanted to create a classy cooler for the ladies, and I love bling, so I added bling to my designs,” Debbie said.

“I design them, tape and glue them, sew them and most importantly I bling them. I do this all myself; I have no help from anyone. My coolers are special because they're made with love, and they’re all my favourites as each one has a different purpose. I do have a few new designs up my sleeve, but I’m keeping a lid on those till I’m ready to release them.”

You can check out Debbie’s handiwork at the Handmade in the Hunter Markets, which will be held from 9am to 3pm at Kevin Sobels Wines on July 7, 14, 21 and 28.

Much more than a Vineyard.

Our Matilda range is made up of easy drinking styles that are produced for your enjoyment.

Come Waltzing with Matilda...

205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin • PH 4998 7887 www.constablevineyards.com.au

spa experience not just a treatment A total

Choose from our extensive range of spa, beauty and massage therapies.

All treatments include complimentary use of Day Spa facili�es, including steam room, spa bath and relaxa�on lounge.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL PH (02) 4993 8500 or email spa@elysia.com.au 165 Thompsons Road, Pokolbin. www.goldendoor.com.au/spa-elysia

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Attention

COOL Parents!

Kitchen & Bakery OPENING JULY 2 Pokolbin Village Accommodation • General Store Pokolbin Bottle Shop • Smelly Cheese Shop Chocolate & Jam Company • Tempt & Vixen

2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin 2320 www.pokolbinvillage.com.au

Want the kids to think you’re cool? Head to Snow Time at Hunter Valley Gardens to celebrate the coolest season of all and enjoy amazing icy activities under sunny winter skies surrounded by beautiful gardens at this awesome annual event.

This year’s event promises to be the biggest and best one yet, with more rides and entertainment than ever before. For over three weeks from 30 June until 22 July, children and adults alike can enjoy all things winter, without having to travel to the snow!

The Hunter Valley Gardens winter wonderland is full of fun and frosty activities for children of all ages! Glide on the giant ice skating rink, swoosh down the mega ice toboggan and experience a 9D snow adventure like no other. Do you want to build a snowman? Well, there’s a Snow Play Zone perfect for the occasion!

The Gardens’ four incredible rides*, including the Venetian carousel, 25m Ferris-wheel, super speedy swing chair and giant slide will be available for the thrillseekers throughout Snow Time. Individual ride tokens and all day rides passes are available to purchase from the event area at the Gardens. Plus, warm up with a range of winter beverages and hearty winter fare on sale for all to enjoy.

Activities will include: ICE SKATING RINK - Spin round the ice on our Snow Time Ice Skating Rink.

Skating sessions last for 20 minutes, and sessions start at 10am every day.

We recommend booking a session early to ensure you don’t miss out!

REAL ICE TOBOGGAN - The Ice Toboggan is a firm favourite, jump on a tube and whizz to the bottom of our 40-metre ice slide. Once is never enough!

SNOW PLAY ZONE - Specially made for kids who want to build snowmen, make a snow angel or get their fingers a little chilly.

9D SNOW ADVENTURE - A new addition to Snow Time, this immersive, virtual reality and multi-sensory experience is straight out cool.

WHEN June 30 - July 22, 2018; Open daily from 10am – 6pm TICKETS Adult (16yrs +) $32; Child (4 -15yrs) $25; Family Passes from $82 (1A + 2C) RIDE COSTS Tokens for individual rides are $6 each, Unlimited rides* wristbands are $15pp. Ice skating, tobogganing, snow play and the 9D snow adventure are included with entry. www.huntervalleygardens.com.au/event/snow-time-garden

13 | JULY 2018 hvb

Pop along

TO OLIVE TREE IN MAITLAND

A curated gathering of designers, makers and gourmet artisan foodies, The Olive Tree Market is a much-loved monthly event in Newcastle, bringing a wide range of talented people together to showcase highquality artisanal goods in a vibrant community-based setting. And this month the market will “Pop-Up” with a seasonal Winter Market at Mailand Regional Art Gallery!

Pop-in to the Pop-up and meet the talented local creative community, learn the stories behind the makers carefully created, innovative, handmade pieces, sample gourmet artisan produce and street food, and be inspired by the buzz of people who love what they do!

Enjoy great music from some of the best emerging talents all day long, relax with family and friends, and discover the current exhibitions at the award-winning regional gallery. There is also the opportunity to take part in a resin artwork workshop with artist Reba Dafter of Pretty Burd.

There will be some truly amazing makers in store for market-goers to browse amongst. Here’s some of our favourites: Anna Bowie Ceramics - Anna has had a lifelong passion for making and appreciating beautiful things. Embroidery and textiles have inspired the intricate and repetitive patterns she uses in her ceramic vessels since she was a child. Anna is passionate about creating and says "I truly hope my pots will bring as much joy to people’s lives as they did for me while I had the pleasure of making them." Take home your own unique ceramic vessel on July 14th.

Monkey and The Bear - Who loves macrame? If beautiful wall hangings and intricate plant hangers are your passion, then make sure you visit the beautiful stall of Maitland local Mia Gillet of Monkey and the Bear.

Studio Kaka – We love the acrylic and watercolour painting of gorgeous botanicals and quirky animals that talented artist Vickie of Studio Kaka creates. Typically you would find Vickie out in Sydney's parks and streets, sketchbook in hand and painting from her tiny box of coloured paints, so seeing her work in Maitland is a real treat!

Newcastle Spinners and Weavers - Just in time for Winter the creative community of the Newcastle Spinners and Weavers will spin wool, mohair, silk alpaca and a great variety of other fibres, and will showcase knitted, felted and woven goods created with natural eco dyes.

Live Entertainment - The Winter Pop Up Olive Tree will feature a carefully curated line-up showcasing incredible performers, songwriters, and up and coming, local musicians. This time it’s Sunday Morning Sidewalk, Vince Redgrove, Martin Rotolo and Huckleberry. It’s the perfect way to get your dose of the best live music outdoors under the beautiful gallery trees while enjoying a coffee or brunch.

The Haloumi Hut – Satisfy the hunger that shopping creates with some delicious Greek food from the Haloumi Hut. Don't miss creators Stel and Candice, who serve amazing Vegetarian and Vegan Greekinspired goodness. Think yummy pastries, dolmades, hummus and tzatziki, Greek doughnuts and halouminati fries. But be early!

The Olive Tree Market Maitland Pop-Up will run from 9am until 2pm on Saturday, July 14th at Maitland Regional Art Gallery – don’t miss it!

JULY 14TH MAITLAND REGIONAL ART GALLERY

9am - 2pm

hvb 14 | JULY 2018

Chaotic Fine-Dining‌

FAULTY-STYLE!

Originating in Brisbane early 1997, Faulty Towers The Dining Experience has become a worldwide hit, appearing in around 20 countries, with ten teams of the cast now touring the world virtually non-stop.

This made-in-Australia globetrotting show is truly quite legendary, selling out in places like Sydney Opera House, Raffles Singapore and London’s West End. In this, its 20th birthday year of touring, it returns to Hunter Valley Resort on July 12– but be warned: it’ll sell out here too, so early booking is essential.

Chaos greets audiences as soon as they walk through the door. In this fully immersive experience, the audience become diners in the infamous ‘Faulty’ restaurant, served a three-course meal by Basil, Sybil and Manuel.

A show that’s never the same twice, it’s great for comedy fans, theatre fans, or anyone who just fancies going out for an unforgettable meal and a good time. This true blend of ingenious comedy and the unique theatrical script is a multi-sensory treat where chaos reigns right from the start.

Expect lashings of laughter, bowls full of spontaneity and as much audience participation as individual audience members want. With 70 per cent of the show improvised, no two performances are ever the same.

For more information and tickets visit www.hunterresort.com.au/faulty-towers/

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From July 16 to August 1

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15 | JULY 2018 hvb

GENERATIONS MAKING THEIR MARK

Tyrrell s Wines

L-R Chris Tyrrell, Andrew Spinaze, Bruce Tyrrell and Mark Richardson.

Photo by Hannah Rose Robinson.

hvb 16 | JULY 2018

CELEBRATING

160 Years Old

As the fourth generation of one of Australia’s first wine families, Bruce Tyrrell understands the weight of his heritage. But that doesn’t mean continuing a winemaking tradition that stretches back 160 years has been a burden on his shoulders.

WORDS Michelle Meehan

Despite the importance of the Tyrrell’s legacy in Australia, Bruce said he never felt a sense of expectation around joining the family business.

“I was never pushed into it, and then my wife and I have done the same thing with our children,” Bruce said.

“We've never pushed them into it. We always hoped they would, but I’ve never pushed them in.”

Bruce has spent the past 43 years of his working life at Tyrrell’s, joining the business at the age of 23 after becoming the first person in the winemaking family to complete a university degree (he studied Agricultural Economics at the University of New England).

Clearly, the no-pressure approach has worked for the fifth generation as well, with Bruce and Pauline’s three children, Jane, John and Chris, having worked across various aspects of the winemaking business for more than 15 years each so far.

Tyrrell’s Wines is celebrating its 160th year in 2018 – a milestone that is remarkable for any business, let alone a family business.

The anniversary coincides with the 47th vintage of Vat 47 Hunter Chardonnay, as well as the 150th vintage of the Old Patch vineyard, home to the oldest producing vines in NSW. Bruce said every successive generation had made its own mark on the business, which was originally started by his great-grandfather Edward Tyrrell, an English immigrant who purchased 320 acres of prime Hunter Valley land at the foot of the Brokenback Range in 1858.

“Each generation brings its own stamp to the table,” Bruce said.

“My great-grandfather started this place. He came to Australia from a reasonably privileged life in London; his father was an eye surgeon, they had servants, they had all of that. And then all of a sudden he’s basically "dumped" in the middle of the bush in New South Wales.

“The physical work that he had to do to clear the land and get things going and build a house and all of that, he couldn't ring up and get it home delivered. He had to do it all himself and that must have been a huge change in lifestyle for him.

“He got it started and my grandfather (Avery Tyrrell), who died early, he got gassed and shot on the Somme (during World War One), and so he only lived into his early or mid-60s, but his great contribution was that he was a wonderful viticulturist.

“These great old vineyards that we have today are really as a result of my grandfather. His older brother, Uncle Dan, ran the place, he was the winemaker. He was probably recognised as having the best sherry palate in the country in his heyday, which was a lot of the industry - not a lot of table wine drunk in the 30s and 40s - so Uncle Dan really guided it through the Depression.

“My father (Murray Tyrrell) is remembered for introducing the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of modern times to Australia. But probably, and more importantly, he really is the father of wine tourism. He started the work to bring people here to the Hunter in the very early 60s and then in the early 70s, which became the thing to do, to go to the vineyards on the weekend. Take your picnic, sit on the lawn, drink too much and somehow drive back to the city.

“

For me, (my contribution has) probably been the development of the Semillon variety. It has always been here, has been something we make that no one else in the world makes, but getting that up to the position that it deserved to be on a world basis (is my contribution).”

While it has been produced by Tyrrell’s since 1963, the esteem in which Tyrrell’s most famous white wine is held centres around Bruce’s decision in 1989 to put away the first quantity of their iconic Vat 1 Semillon, despite being advised not to age it in the bottle.

Seven years later it was released to the public, and the result was incredible, starting the tradition of Tyrrell’s best Hunter Semillon coming to the market with bottle age, with an unsurpassed record in the wine shows.

(Continued next page) ►

Dine out with the whole family at Harrigan’s

F R EE JUMPING CASTLE SC HOOL HO LI DAY’S ON WEATH ER PE LY RM IT TI NG ,

Families will enjoy our great range of value meals, plus jumping castle operating daily* Only minutes from Hunter Valley Garden’s, boutique shops and some of Australia’s finest Vineyards, make it a whole day out for your next trip to the Hunter Valley.

For details visit harrigans.com.au or call 4998 4300 to make a booking

Broke Road Pokolbin

17 | JULY 2018 hvb

(continued)

Bruce and Chris Tyrrell.

Photo by Hannah Rose Robinson.

“We were in China a couple of weeks ago, and people were coming up to us saying, ‘We're here to try Vat wine, that wine’s the best in all the world, it's the best Semillon in all the world’, and it was a real thrill to hear that. I didn't necessarily expect it, but it was a wonderful thrill,” Bruce said.

“Producing it's actually not that difficult, but it's the ability to develop and improve in the bottle, and to live, to live for 40 years.

“At the end of the day, a great wine is not something that looks terrific, like a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, it looks great for a couple of years, and then it dies off. That's a nice commercial wine. They've got to be able to open them at 15-years-old and go, ‘Bugger, I wish we'd kept that another five years.’ That's what great wine is all about.”

Bruce’s children are also making their mark on Tyrrell’s, with Jane looking after the key “On Premise” sales accounts across NSW and John working in the winery in a role dubbed by Bruce as “Minister for Morale”.

Chris joined the company full time in 2001 at the age of 18, taking part in the first vintage following the death of his grandfather and Australian winemaking legend Murray Tyrrell a few months earlier.

In between vintages he worked in sales and marketing before returning to the winery permanently at the end of 2005.

Since then he has been an assistant winemaker working with two of the great modern day Hunter Valley winemakers, Andrew Spinaze and Mark Richardson.

Named a “Rising Star” of the Hunter wine industry in 2012 and becoming a scholar at the Len Evans Tutorial later that year, Chris has spent the last few years helping Tyrrell’s improve, and in some cases reinvent, their classic regional styles and single vineyard sites, including the flagship Semillon and Shiraz wines from some of the world’s oldest vineyards.

With the sixth generation of Tyrrells also in bud, Bruce claims his motivation these days is driven by his growing clan of grandkids and the legacy he can leave behind for them.

“I suppose it's what I do (that makes me passionate). If I stopped coming here, my wife would probably shoot me two months later. It’s what gets you up in the morning,” Bruce said.

“But the great thing for me at the moment is I’ve got a two-and-abit-year-old grandson, and I'm due to get another one at the end of next month.

“I think that’s what gets me out of bed in the morning now - to make sure that there's something here for them.

“Again, I'm sure Chris and Tegan are not going to march them into the wine industry.

“I’ve seen too many people who’ve worked their life for a family business because they were supposed to, and they hated every minute of it, and they had a miserable life. So I don't want any of my children or grandchildren to have to do that. That decision will be theirs when the time comes.

“But you know, you’re not going to put any obstacles in the road if they do make that decision.

“The Tyrrells have been through many phases of change over the last 160 years, adapting to changes in the industry and the economy and the family members of the time.

“The consistent factor throughout time has been our love of the Hunter Valley and the wines that it makes. It runs through the veins of the family.

“We have been amongst the very few people lucky enough to work with something that is truly unique in the world of wine, Hunter Semillon, and have become close to the perfection of its style.

hvb 18 | JULY 2018

“

In another 160 years, my wish is that the family is still here on our original land making wines that are of great quality and distinctive to the Hunter Valley."

A focus on producing some of the best wines in the world is certainly the way forward for Tyrrell’s according to Bruce, who would much rather the business chase quality rather than quantity.

“We were three or four times bigger 20 years ago (in terms of production) than we are today,” Bruce said.

“But then our commercial success took away our ability to be recognised as one of the world’s great winemakers.

“That's where we’re headed back to now, we’ve sold the Long Flat brand, got out of two or three other brands, and our average price in the last 15 years has doubled.

“We have finally gone through that transition, but we’ve probably still got another two to three years to go to get to where we want to be.

“There’s still some more work to do, but being known as one of the world’s great winemakers is where we want to be.”

To mark the 160th anniversary and demonstrate how the best of the Hunter Valley has the ability to age gracefully, Tyrrell’s have released two commemorative museum wines: 2005 Vat 1 Hunter Semillon, the most awarded wine in Tyrrell’s history, and 2007 Vat 9 Hunter Shiraz. ■

Winemaking Team

DASHVILLE'S

'PIG DAY OUT' Returns in 2018!

After a year in the wilderness the fiery winter warmer, PigSty In July returns to Dashville in 2018, not bigger, but better!

Considered the more sinister little sister to the famed Gum Ball, PigSty in July is a reduced capacity, exclusive day out in the bush at Dashville, with an equal measure of decadence and debauchery. A compulsory 'second-hand formal' dress code sets the tone for a laidback day of great live music and comedy, succulent food, top-shelf grog and a few toasty bonfires for good measure. Unfortunately, you'll have to leave the kiddies at home as this one is fully licensed, adults only (+18).

This year the oversized outdoor dinner party will run a collaboration with MEET Restaurant, who will provide a succulent multi-course dinner full of their famous Brazilian style BBQ menu, included in the $95 ticket.

Along with a complimentary drink on arrival, optional camping and a whole bunch of live entertainment, that all seems like a pretty good deal!

With the return of PigSty in July, organisers are excited to jag home-grown Aussie ska legends The Porkers. Formed in Newcastle way back in 1987, the group, led by founder and singer Pete Cooper, are an institution on Australia's live circuit and have toured internationally and played major festivals like the Big Day Out, Livid, Vans Warped Tour and Homebake. With an energy custom-made for a party such as PigSty, The Porkers are 31 years young and ready to make this night one to remember.

Joining The Porkers is another highly reputable Australian rock band, the incomparable Front End Loader. With new record Neutral Evil under their belt, the 27-year-old band isn't about to slow down. Their heavy anthems have riffs you could carve with a steak knife.

Other acts to get you up and grooving, include a band that tore the house down at Gum Ball 2017, Brisbane eight-piece The Steele Syndicate. This stellar party band fuse rock, funk, soul and reggae into classic tunes that will have you dancing up a storm.

Then there's The Jolene, from the sunny North Coast NSW. This big family band weld a mix of ragged country, rock, bluegrass and gypsy to create something all their own. Then you've got the party band of

The Steele Syndicate

a party bands Dashville Progress Society, an evolving Mecca of around 14-22 local musicians, who seem to have garnered quite the reputation after a number of appearances at Dashville over the years.

Georgie Jones is excited to be bringing her band song to warm up proceedings when the live music kicks off at around 2pm.

Comedy is also set to keep the smile on your dial at least until the crackling arrives particularly with Melbourne's Aaron Gocs. This mullet wielding funny man is fast becoming one of the country's most beloved comics and documenters of Australian culture and his dry humour we can all relate to. Cameron James is thriving in the Australian standup scene, selling out shows left, right and centre at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival with his show Chilled Out/Fired Up. The Newcastle native also had a one-hour special air on the ABC as part of their Comedy Next Gen series. It's worth a look on ABC iView. Bec Charlwood has performed at Melbourne International Comedy Festival and The Sydney Comedy Store. She recently was hand selected by Rove McManus to feature at his live shows and also performed at Tahir's Christmas Showcase. Her effortless charm and wit will keep you laughing all night.

For more information and tickets visit www.dashville.com.au. What are you waiting for – get crackling!

Open 7 days

Open for lunch 7 days per week and Friday nights for Dinner 694 HERMITAGE ROAD, POKOLBIN 02 6574 7085 | cellardoor@pdwines.com.au

www.pdwines.com.au

19 | JULY 2018 hvb

Hosting a

Your always welcome at...

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

There is nothing quite like a fes�ve sushi pla�er to impress your guests.

It tastes healthy, light and delicious.

A favourite dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

Always fresh... Always vibrant Open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

Takeaway available every day.

J A P A N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E

Roche Estate, Hunter Valley Corner of Broke Rd & Mcdonald Rd’s Pokolbin, NSW 2320 PH 02 4998 7051 www.oishii.com.au

/OishiiPokolbin

CRACKING WINE PARTY 101!

WORDS Michelle Meehan

Looking for an excuse to get together with your friends to enjoy a few glasses from the latest Hunter Valley vintage?

Why not host a wine tasting party – your chance to combine good food and great wine with an opportunity to learn more about what it is you’re swishing around your glass.

Located at Gartelmann Wines.

The Deck Café Lovedale provides a diverse and delightful menu complemented by Gartelmann Wines and Piazza Doro Coffee.

Open 7 Days for Breakfast and Lunch.

Mon to Fri 8.30am till 3.30pm, Sat and Sun 8am till 3.30pm.

www.deckcafelovedale.com.au hvb 20 | JULY 2018

Of course, there’s more than just one type of wine tasting party, so the first step is to work out the theme.

You could concentrate on one particular producer, which if you’re keen to stick to Hunter Valley wines (and why wouldn’t you!) gives you plenty of options right on your doorstep, from the internationally-renown brands through to the smaller boutique producers dotted throughout Wine Country.

Another option is to pick one varietal from a particular year, sourced from a number of different producers. This is known as a horizontal tasting, and it allows you to hone in on the nuances of flavour, appearance and finish that can be crafted into the varietal by the individual winemakers.

A good choice for this style of tasting could be Hunter-made Semillons, which are renowned the world over for their uniqueness.

There are also vertical tastings (one varietal from a particular winemaker over a number of vintages), as well as events based on the most popular wines on the market or even wines from a particular price range.

Pairing wines with cheese – or chocolate – can also create particularly flavoursome fun. Why not pick up some of the fine quality Hunter-made products available in the heart of Wine Country, such as those created by

the Hunter Valley Cheese Factory or Hunter Valley Chocolate Co – they might even be able to provide you with a few pointers about what wines to pair with their products.

Once you’ve chosen your theme, you obviously need to select the particular wines to be tasted and work out the order they will be served.

With white wines, moving from drier varietals to sweeter wines is the best arrangement, while reds should be tasted in order from lighter wines through to the more full-bodied varietals.

Create a tasting card for your guests, including everything from the name of the winemaker to the vintage of the wine, as well as the specific varietal and even some of the tasting notes provided by the producer.

Traditional wine tasting parties would also include a section on the tasting card for your guests to record their observations of the drop, from its aroma and flavour to its appearance and their rating of the wine.

Blind tastings can be a fun option – wine bottles are covered during pouring and the winemaker’s identity, along with the varietal, are kept secret. You could make this into a light-hearted competition – the guest whose guesses are closest to the mark could win a bottle of wine or be awarded the honorary title of the “wine taster of the night”.

While wine tasting on an empty stomach can be a recipe for disaster, the only food you should serve during the tasting is a simple selection of bread to help cleanse the palate between varietals (or the cheeses and chocolates you have paired with the wines).

Why not invite the guests over a little earlier to serve up a light meal before the swishing and sipping begins – or prepare a simple supper to follow straight after the tasting is complete.

When it comes to inviting your guests - try to limit the numbers – wine tastings seem to go hand-in-hand with a more intimate atmosphere.

Make sure you provide each guest with two glasses if you are looking to serve both reds and whites and keep plenty of water on hand to help cleanse your palate between wines.

Keep it simple when it comes to your tableware – a white tablecloth and napkins will ensure your guests can see the true colour profiles of the wines.

Sounds simple, doesn’t it? The hardest part may be choosing the wines to sample – this might call for your own trip around a few Hunter cellar doors this weekend – in the name of research of course!

21 | JULY 2018 hvb

the perfect wine country dining experience executive chef jean marc-pollet has created a menu driven by the fusion of classic French cuisine with local, seasonal Australian produce including produce from his private farm. situated in the hub of hunter valley wine country, éléments is open 7 days for café lunch and a-la-carte dinner.

CELLAR DOOR | OPEN 7 DAYS | 9 am - 5 pm

Corner Broke & Mcdonalds Rd’s, Pokolbin | PH 4998-2000

358 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin,NSW, 2320

ON THE GO? PLANNING A TRIP? Read Your Hunter Valley Blackboard online each month at www.yourhuntervalley.com.au Find out what’s on at your fingertips it’s your Hunter Valley after all! /YourHunterValleyBlackboard

BLACKBOARD

WE BELIEVE IN THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. THEY JUST NEED TO BE AMAZING.

Weddings Amongst the Vines The charming colonial buildings, stunning landscaped grounds and sweeping verandahs of Calais Estate provide the perfect setting for your wedding.

SMART CASUAL DINING FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE WEDDINGS | EVENTS | PRIVATE FUNCTIONS LOCATED ON THE VINE AT COCKFIGHTERS GHOST VINEYARD 576 DE BEYERS ROAD, POKOLBIN PH: 4998 7776| info@huntersquarter.com.au www.huntersquarter.com.au

OPEN LUNCH THURS - SUN. DINNER THURS, FRI, SAT & MON.

hvb 22 | JULY 2018

Catering for up to 250 guests, choose from a selection of modern-style menu dishes or create a personalised menu for your special day.

To enquire, please email info@verandahrestaurant.com.au

(02) 4998 7231

www.verandahrestaurant.com.au

23 | JULY 2018 hvb

YES, CHEF!

Cooking up a Storm in Wine Country As a region, the Hunter is a culinary destination like no other and features a diverse and abundant dining experience ranging from charming cafes to hatted restaurants, which proudly showcase the regions passionate and talented chefs, regionally sourced produce and award-winning wines.

WORDS Quentin von Essen

The Hunter Valley wine culture has inspired a strong food culture and vice versa. The two simply go hand in hand, and it is no coincidence that some of the best restaurants in the world happen to be located in some of the finest wine-growing regions - where wine is often just as prevalent in the cooking process as it is in the glass.

The Hunter’s reputation as a wine region is unquestionable, but it’s also home to some of the most creative and edgy restaurants making their presence felt on the regional culinary stage, with the muchcelebrated hatted trio of Muse Restaurant, Muse Kitchen and Bistro Molines leading the way.

There really is no other wine region in Australia with such a large number of quality restaurants and all in close proximity - a fact that has been embraced by Australian and international visitors alike.

To help you understand why the Hunter has become one of the nation’s most exciting culinary destinations we take a peek behind the kitchen doors to learn more about the Head Chefs orchestrating this culinary charge and taking dining excitement to the next level.

Robert and Sally Molines. Photo

by Chris Elfes.

hvb 24 | JULY 2018

Troy Rhoades-Brown

One of the most respected names in Australia’s food scene is undoubtedly Robert Molines.

The European-trained chef moved to the Hunter Valley with his wife Sally in 1973 and is renowned as the man who brought French food to the region.

He is now widely regarded as one of the great Hunter Valley chefs – but it was his childhood in Algeria and France that exposed him to a mix of French, Italian and Mediterranean cultures and sparked his interest in food.

Robert completed his culinary education at the Catering Institute of Menton in the South of France before serving his apprenticeship at some of the top hotels in Monte Carlo, Monaco, Nice and Cannes.

He arrived in Australia in 1968 where he gained experience with renowned restaurants such as Eliza’s in Double Bay and Beppi’s in Sydney before moving to the Hunter to take on the role of Chef Manager at the Happy Valley Restaurant in Pokolbin.

Since then Robert and Sally have operated a number of well-known restaurants that include the Cellar Restaurant, The Verandah Restaurant at Calais Estate, as well as the multi-award-winning Roberts at Pepper Tree, which they opened in 1991.

After a brief sojourn in the French Bistro at the old cellar door at Beltree on Hermitage Rd, they made the inspired decision in 2008 to start Bistro Molines – a one chef hat rated traditional French bistro located at Tallavera Grove Vineyard in Mount View.

It is here that Robert has truly been in his element and it shows – he was inducted into the JK Walker Culinary Hall of Fame alongside other legendary Australian chefs and has received Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide chef’s hat awards each year since 2010. In June this year, both Robert and Sally were also inducted as Hunter Valley Living Legends.

But his enduring legacy must be the way he has nurtured a generation of the Hunter’s top chefs, including Lesley Taylor (Robert’s first apprentice) and Troy Rhoades-Brown.

Troy is the perfect example of the top-class chefs currently creating gastronomical delights in the Hunter.

Troy began his cooking career at the age of 16, working for a small family-owned Italian restaurant, Pascalles, in Newcastle before moving to the Hunter Valley to work for Robert Molines at Robert’s Restaurant.

In 2005 Troy was awarded the Brett Graham Scholarship, a highly coveted accolade that comes with the chance to undertake work experience at the famed UK restaurant The Ledbury.

A few years later Troy and his wife Megan took the plunge into the world of restaurant ownership, opening Muse Restaurant (two chef’s hats) in 2009 followed by Muse Kitchen (one chef’s hat) in 2011.

After taking out the title of Young Restaurateur of the Year 2014 at the Appetite for Excellence Awards, Troy was named the NextGen Chef in Delicious Magazine’s 10th annual Produce Awards in 2015, cementing his status as one of the nation’s most exciting culinary talents.

While Troy may have only dipped his toe into the London dining world, The Cellar Restaurant’s Andy Wright grew up fully immersed in the scene.

After spending his childhood years in London working at the local Italian restaurant after school and at weekends, Andy completed his apprenticeship in 1983.

He then spent a decade working at various hotels and restaurants before becoming the Head Chef at the House of Lords in 1994 and later running a private dining room for the directors of J Walter Thompson in Mayfair, London.

Andy migrated to Australia in 1996 and became the Sous Chef at the Nikko Hotel, Darling Harbour before moving to the Hunter Valley in 1997.

Andy worked as the Head Chef at Roberts Restaurant before moving on to Pipette at Cypress Lakes and Seasons Restaurant at Hunter Valley Gardens, where he was also involved with the kitchen set-up for Harrigan’s Irish Pub. He and his wife Janet became part owners of the highly popular The Cellar Restaurant in 2002, before taking control completely in 2005.

All-around nice-guy Matt Dillow is another local chef that has been kicking culinary goals since he opened his first restaurant in the region 11 years ago. Since then, Matt has cemented his position as a leading culinary force in the Hunter’s hospitality industry by embracing his Maltese heritage and bringing a touch of the Mediterranean to the valley.

The father of two has earned a reputation, not only as a cooking maestro but as a savvy business operator who over the past 11 years has had no less than three highly regarded dining venues under his belt which were very popular amongst local, interstate and international visitors. Having sold two of the restaurants (The Verandah and Twine), Matt has retained the Deck Café in Lovedale and continues to host food, wine and produce tours to Tasmania, New Zealand and Tuscany which are fast growing in popularity.

Andy Wright

Born and raised in Parramatta - Sydney, Matt discovered his passion for food at a young age, indulging in his love of cooking when he was just 15.

After undertaking his apprenticeship with Rydges Hotels and Resorts, Matt went to work as a full-time chef at the stylishly-restored Hotel CBD Sydney and the multipurpose Slip Inn in Sussex Street, before finding himself back at the Rydges Hotel in North Sydney in the position of Head Chef.

A desire to sample the flavours of the world saw Matt travel through Europe to experience the cultures and cuisines of Spain, Greece, Portugal, Prague, England, Germany, Demark and France.

He returned to Sydney to undertake the challenge of revitalising the historic Barrenjoey House as Head Chef of the Palm Beach venue before heading north to the Hunter to take the reins of his own establishment, (Continued next page) ►

25 | JULY 2018 hvb

Donna Hollis

Matt Dillow

(continued) opening the Verandah Restaurant in the picturesque surrounds of Calais Estate in 2007.

It wasn’t long before Matt was exploring additional dining ventures in the Hunter and went on to establish the popular The Deck Café at Gartelmann Wines in Lovedale and creating his own catering business now operating out of Tamburlaine Wines.

RidgeView Restaurant’s Executive Chef Donna Hollis was born and raised in the Hunter Valley.

She began her apprenticeship at Il Cacciatore Restaurant in Pokolbin before leaving to take up a role at Monte Pio in Maitland.

She returned to the vineyards as Head Chef at Casuarina Estate, working there for more than three years as she discovered her passion for the flambé style of cooking.

Donna has also over the years been an ''in demand'' chef - working with some very well-known chefs at events that include the Seasons Plate Lunch at Wyndham Estate and Opera in the Vines as well as well at many concerts and long lunches. Donna has also cooked at numerous private dinner parties and for a number of celebrities that include Billy Thorpe and the cast of Home and Away.

As the Executive Chef at RidgeView Restaurant, Donna has been able to demonstrate her creative, passionate and self-driven personality, through her food preparation and cooking as well as incorporate her love of fresh local produce on the seasonal menus. Donna has also been instrumental in introducing a refreshingly different style of dining at RidgeView with a menu that includes traditional and contemporary Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences throughout the inviting menu and also the popular Cypriot Mezze - complemented by an excellent selection of wines.

Newcastle born, Timothy Suffell is very much as home at the Verandah Restaurant which he and his wife Amanda purchased from Matt Dillow. Tim was drawn to food at a very young age largely due to the influence of his grandmother - a Fellow of the City of London’s Worshipful Company of Cooks for her skill in confectionary and pastry.

Uniquely Ivanhoe Ivanhoe Wines provides spectacular views and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Stretching across the foothills of the majestic Brokenback Mountain range, the Ivanhoe Estate is an 80-acre patchwork quilt of vineyards which has become one of the most photographed and talked about vineyards in the Hunter Valley.

When you visit the Ivanhoe cellar door, you will not only get a wine tasting but a complete wine experience. Visitors are welcome to come and learn about the Ivanhoe Estate and the winemaking process.

Open 7 days a week. 10am – 5pm | Bookings for groups are recommended to ensure your visit is extra special.

525 Marrowbone Rd, Pokolbin NSW hvb 26 | JULY 2018

|

02 4998 7325

|

www.ivanhoewines.com.au

His grandmother instilled upon him not only her knowledge but her creed: good food, good wine, good friends.

After completing school, Timothy headed to Sydney, where he began his apprenticeship at Hugo’s in Bondi Beach (one chef hat restaurant) before moving back to the Hunter Valley to finish his training under Executive Chef Jean Marie at Cypress Lakes Resort. Throughout his career, Timothy has had the privilege of working at some of the finest establishments and with the best chefs the country has to offer including Warren Turnbull at Sydney’s Cruise (two chef hat restaurant) and the opulent Lizard Island Resort.

Timothy’s love of travelling has had a large impact on his style of cooking, with Eastern Mediterranean techniques and flavours shining through his classical French training to ensure each dish he prepares is a unique gastronomic exploration.

Another Sydney-born chef who gave in to the temptation of a Hunter “tree change” is the man behind one of the wine region’s newest restaurants, Hunters Quarter.

Attracted by the lifestyle, wine and food offered by the region, owner and head chef Brian Duncan and his wife Jen made the move to the Hunter Valley where they opened their restaurant at Cockfighters Ghost Vineyard in Pokolbin.

Describing his style as modern European, Brian brings a wealth of well-travelled experience in fine dining to the Hunter’s culinary scene, having worked at the Dorchester Hotel (three Michelin stars) and Claridges Hotel (one Michelin star) in London.

Brian was also the executive chef at two of Sydney’s most iconic venues - Level 41 and The Establishment – and even cooked for Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 2014 Winter Olympics!

Working with a simple philosophy focused on fresh flavours, he uses local and seasonal produce to produce a modern Australian menu exemplified by its balance of flavour and texture.

Another French chef who has had an interesting journey to the Hunter is Jean Marc Pollett – Executive Chef at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley. With Jean Marc at the helm, éléments restaurant serves up the perfect wine country dining experience with a menu driven by the fusion of classic French cuisine and fresh Australian produce.

Born and raised in Calais, Jean Marc was admitted to hotel school in Paris at the very young age of 15 - working long hours at the Grand Hotel in Paris, for minimum wages every weekend and then spending his weekdays studying.

Being on low wages meant he could only afford a small room on the top floor of a very cheap hotel in ''Rue Provence'' which was also very popular with the local prostitutes in the area. Despite the hardships, Jean Marc fell in love with Paris - captivated by the fast pace of city living, its parks, museums, galleries and restaurants.

After almost five years, Jean Marc left Paris to go to Toulouse where he worked for a few months in a small country restaurant, before moving to Monte Carlo where he was the Sous-Chef at the five-star Beach Plaza Hotel.

After Monte Carlo, Jean Marc put his heart and soul into his career with a brief stint in Geneva before travelling overseas to Australia where in 1985 he worked at the Hotel Regent Sydney before joining the Peppers Group where he was the Executive Chef at Peppers Guest House and then Peppers Anchorage until 2008. He was then asked to

Timothy Suffell

Jean Marc Pollett

Brian Duncan.

Photo by Chris Elfes

join the Mercure Resort Hunter Valley as Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage where he has been for the past ten years and is considered one of Hunter Valley’s most respected chefs.

While Pollet's background is French, his experiences in Europe and Asia have had a significant impact on his methods and menus with distinctive French, Mediterranean and Asian influences evident and flowing into the mix of his cooking.

(Continued next page) ►

olives, olives, olives Come visit us for a range of Estate Grown Olives, Tapenade and local olive oils or a Cheese platter on the deck with a glass of wine

725 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley www.tintilla.com.au #tintillaestate 27 | JULY 2018 hvb

Frank Fawkner

(continued) Creativity was also at the heart of fellow Hunter-bred chef Frank Fawkner’s culinary outlook when he opened EXP. Restaurant at Oakvale Wines in 2015.

After beginning his cooking career at the age of 15 at the Mount Broke Wines cafe, Frank was part of the team involved in the opening of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley before heading overseas to work for Tom Aikens at “Tom’s Kitchen” in Chelsea, London.

On his return to Australia, Frank took up a position at Muse Restaurant working with Troy and Megan Rhoades-Brown, where he later became Head Chef and helped steer Muse to two hat status in the Sydney Morning Herald’s Good Food Guide.

For many chefs, the accolades may have proved sufficient, but Frank has always been ambitious, and in March 2015, he decided to fulfil a long-held dream to go out on his own, setting up EXP. Restaurant at the historic Oakvale Winery in Pokolbin.

With its hand-crafted furniture, open-style kitchen and colourcoded crockery designed to reflect the theme of the menu cleverly, Frank has made his mark on the Hunter’s culinary landscape with his creative dishes, culinary skills and unique dining experience. His latest nod came in the form of the winning dish at the 2018 Annual Food Fight, where he beat top Sydney Chefs Joel Bickford and Mitch Orr to claim the prize for the Hunter.

Frank is now also opening Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery within the Polkobin Village and will be serving breakfast and lunch options accompanied by coffee, cakes, patisserie and bread.

Set to open in the first week of July, the venue will be the Hunter Valley’s first dedicated bakery and will open seven days a week, catering to locals and tourists alike. ■

School Holidays

IN WINE COUNTRY You may be in wine country, but there will be no whining this school holidays – with a plethora of fun activities for kids big and small!

If animal attractions are your thing then why not visit the alpacas for the daily feeding at Starline Alpacas at Broke, meet the adorable residents at Nulkaba’s Hunter Valley Zoo or get in the saddle at one of the region’s horse riding schools.

Hunter Valley Horseriding & Adventures offer all day horse riding camps during the school holidays for 12-16-year-olds. The camps include looking after horses, feeding, grooming, saddlery ►

“Largest beer range

Massive Wine Sale at The Garden Cellars $50 cases, $60 cases and $144 cases available throughout July.

in the valley!”

Come in and visit the ‘Tunnel of Beer’. Stocked to the brim with delicious brews from around the world.

alley Hunter V nter u Wine, H odka V y r e Distill beer and craft able ail v a tastings ! y il a d

THE GARDEN

CELLARS hvb 28 | JULY 2018

You will find us at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5.30pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

and riding. For more information about school holiday activities visit www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au Make the most of the annual influx of ice and snow at Hunter Valley Gardens, with Snow Time in the Garden running until July 22. Spin around the ice at the ice skating rink, whizz down the 40m ice slide on top of a toboggan tube or indulge in some snowman building fun as part of everyone’s favourite wintery celebration in Pokolbin. Visit www. huntervalleygardens.com.au/event/snow-time-garden/ for more details.

Sweet treats will also be on the menu these holidays at Sabor in the Hunter Dessert Bar or indulge in a children’s high tea for $44 per person at Sabor Tea House.

A Harry Potter themed high tea will also be on offer for the region’s young witches and wizards at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley on July 14 and 20.

There will be plenty of fun for all the family at the Richmond Vale Railway Museum, which is running trains on their Mulbring Road branch on the first three Sundays of each month and every Sunday during the school holidays. Gates open at 9.30am and close at 4pm, with the last trains leaving by 3pm.

Full-sized train rides are free after admission, with entry also giving you access to the railway museum. Entry costs $16 for adults, $11 concession and $7.50 for children aged 5 to 15 years. Visit richmondvalerailwaymuseum.org for more information.

One of the most-read and famous children’s books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar emerges off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for the whole family at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre on July 11. A timeless classic for all generations, this Australian made show will excite, educate and entertain new readers and first-time theatregoers, while for those who grew up with these books will delight in experiencing one of the most popular children’s books ever written.

Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Libraries have an action-packed program of events lined up to keep local kids entertained. Kicking off on Monday 9 July and running through to Friday 20 July, there is something for everyone to get involved with!

Learn to juggle and perform magic tricks at JD Howlett’s wonderful workshop for young witches and wizards, or create a cartoon with Matt Lin, Sydney author and artist. Kids can also learn to knit a scarf or weave a basket the traditional Aboriginal way.

For the tinkerers and builders, there’s the Cardboard Automata Makerspace workshop or the annual Lego competition is a chance to put your creative building skills to the test! And last but not least, use your creative puzzle-solving skills to escape from the Divination Classroom, that’s right kids, the Hogwarts Escape Room is back! Pick up a program at Cessnock or Kurri Kurri Libraries or download it online at libraries. cessnock.nsw.gov.au.

Places for these activities are limited, so avoid disappointment by booking ahead. For more information and to book your spot today, contact Cessnock Library on 4993 4399 or Kurri Kurri Library on 4937 1638. ■

The Lad y in

Pin k

...

POKOL B IN E STAT E VIN EYARD

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate.

Winery – 2017 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

Pokolbin Estate Vineyard 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin | Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au

29 | JULY 2018 hvb

The Living End

IT’LL BE A RED-HOT SUMMER …AGAIN! The Red Hot Summer Tour is back in 2019 and tickets are now on sale! Featuring Australia’s favourite son Jimmy Barnes, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts, The Living End, Diesel, Richard Clapton and Chocolate Starfish, the run of eight dates including the Hunter Valley’s Roche Estate on February 2, 2019.

With such a stellar line-up, it isn’t hard to see why the Red Hot Summer Tour has earned the reputation as one of the best regional festivals on the touring circuit.

Promoter Duane McDonald, who established the Red Hot Summer Tour over nine years ago, had a strong vision from the start of bringing world-class rock acts to regional areas.

“Our ethos starting out was to take the type of artists you would see performing at festivals in metro centres, and bring them to the regions,” he says.

“Music fans are everywhere, and just because they don’t live in a capital city doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have access to some of the best live acts. We are so proud to have grown the festival to encompass dozens of shows – across three different series annually – with bills that

Jimmy Barnes

include some of the world’s most iconic artists. We are excited about 2019 – we’re going to rock the socks off of music fans!”

The Red Hot Summer Tour is always a sell-out series. The 2018 run saw many of the shows sell-outs several months before, and tickets are always coveted. Don’t miss out on tickets to the 2019 tour – these shows are what music memories are made of!

Tickets are on sale now and are only available through Ticketmaster on 136 100 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.au Patrons are advised not to purchase tickets from Viagogo or other Third Party Sellers, as fraudulent tickets will not be honoured.

NEW!

Mystery Gin

Now Available!

OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES

7 Days, 10am - 5pm 1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley PH (02) 4998 6737 • info@hunterdistillery.com.au www.hunterdistillery.com.au hvb 30 | JULY 2018

From the VISITOR

INFORMATION CENTRE Winter is a great time to visit the Hunter Valley. The chilly weather gives a good excuse to rug up, and explore all the delights the valley has to offer. Taste charming and elegant wines at many of our cellar doors, and try warming fortified wines such as ports, liqueurs and distillery products.

Grab a tasting plate at one of our many excellent restaurants and cafes, or rug up in front of a fire for a romantic getaway in one of our excellent quality accommodation outlets.

Visit our friendly staff in July for some school holiday inspiration!

GIFT SHOP Get your winter warmers in our Gift Shop. We are pleased to have new Winter stock arriving to complement our huge range of toys, handmade goods and novelty items. We have an extensive range of local WHAT’S ON AT THE HUNTER VALLEY VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE lavender products including heat packs, as well as a new range of winter hats and children’s apparel.

IN JULY? Join our friendly team at the Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre in July for some extra special school holidays fun!

WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE VINEYARDS? In winter, the vines in the This month in the Centre we have a special showcase of school Hunter Valley have a long rest after all the stresses of harvest. The cooler holidays activities and family-friendly experiences. Come and view our months have arrived, and some much-needed rains are helping the soils School Holidays Display which features information and inspiration to recover. Now that the vines can go into winter dormancy, the leaves on what will be happening daily during the winter break. We’ll have have fallen, and the canes can be pruned ready for spring bud burst. information available on horse riding, go-karting, alpacas, local kid’s Early morning frosts join our pruners in the vineyard, wrestling the vines, shows, the Hunter Valley Zoo, Train Rides, Snowtime in the Gardens, pruning and tying down.

High Tea for Kids and so much more.

BROKE FORDWICH IN THE SPOTLIGHT Each and every month the Centre highlights a different precinct within the Hunter Valley. In July the spotlight is on Broke Fordwich which has quality boutique wineries and olive growers and a range of quality accommodation, restaurants and cellar doors.

Sure to delight small and big kids alike is Broke Fordwich’s Starline Alpaca’s which offers daily feeding. Feed the Alpacas daily during the school holidays from 9am - 3pm at 1100 Milbrodale Road, Broke.

HOT TIP FOR JULY: FIRESIDE DINING Be sure to drop into the Centre and ask for our special list of places to visit which offer fireside dining.

With winter now officially upon us and the cooler weather, we have put together a list of restaurants which have fireplaces and open for lunch and dinner. Pay us a visit at 455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin to learn where to go!

Rhiannon Stevens

UR MULLED WIN O Y E TODAY! TR A WELCOME HUG ON A CHILLY DAY Tastings available weekends

2 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin Open 7 days 10am - 4pm • Phone 4991 5456 www.kelmanvineyard.com.au

Emma’s Cottage Vineyard 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale 2320 • (02) 4998 7734 www.emmascottage.com.au 31 | JULY 2018 hvb

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33 | JULY 2018 hvb

From

TERRACOTTA POTS TO A

BREWERY How did Potters get its name?

While driving along Wine Country Drive from Cessnock, it is difficult to miss the beehive-shaped structures that feature prominently on the property that is now Potters Hotel Brewery Resort in Nulkaba. These are the kilns that were used to make clay bricks, roofing tiles and sewage pipes required by the region at the time.

The first Brickworks was set up by Stephen Arthur Henery and Mark Robinson (circa 1880) on the 10-acre site especially chosen for its rich clay deposits in the soil, which were considered ideal for making bricks.

The kilns fed the insatiable demand for bricks by the coal mining industry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the primary industry and employer in the Hunter at that time. Not only were the pit top buildings mostly made from bricks, but the shafts were bricked as well. The pipes and bricks produced by the kilns were also used to build the town as well as the water and sewage systems, which were added later.

The roof tiles made by the potteries became a popular local roofing material, and red brick with vertical scores on its surface was unique to the pottery. It eventually became the biggest employer in the area outside of the mines.

During 1928 the original entrepreneurs formed the company known as Robinson and Henery Ltd and moved into the business of producing garden terracotta pots.

The business grew, and a new kiln was commissioned under specifications of W Cunningham who was a pottery manufacturer in England. In 1929 the name was changed to Cessnock Potteries.

In 1931 Cessnock Council accepted a tender for the salt grazed stoneware pipes used for development of sewerage lines in the area.

During this time, brick and garden pottery ceased at Cessnock Potteries, and public works took over. This expansion continued, and sewerage

hvb 34 | JULY 2018

pipes were supplied to neighbouring townships including Scone, Singleton, Muswellbrook and as far away as Condobolin and Bourke.

In 1933 it became apparent to the plant engineer Joaby Shoesmith that coal was often associated with clay and this led to the discovery of more clay in the area.

During the 1940s renovations were undertaken at the plant to convert to electric power and during World War II the company was declared to be an essential industry for the war effort.

In 1989, what is now the Hotel part of Potters was built and named Potters Tavern to reflect the rich heritage of the area.

In 2002, the accommodation was added to Potters to take advantage of the lush grounds and its proximity to the wineries. Around this time, the Hunter Beer Co. first started operations, much smaller than the scale seen today.

Today, many of the kilns have been restored by the Ord family, who owns Potters Hotel Brewery Resort. The four kilns that remain on the site are also Heritage listed.

SHOP Australian Alpaca Barn brea + lulu Exclusive Diamond Co. Candelabra Hunter Valley Christmas Shop Hunter Valley Gift & Crystal Shop Peppers Creek Antiques The Twig The Waiterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Friend Village Books Wison & Hunter Wine Glass Gallery

EAT Cupcake Espresso Oscars Hunter Valley Taste of the Country The Cellar Restaurant

PAMPER Jolie Hair Makeup Beauty

SAVOUR Hunter Valley Chocolate Company KissOfire The British Lolly Shop The Garden Cellars Hunter Honey Hive

ESSENTIALS Pokolbin Farm Shop Pokolbin Village Pharmacy

PLAY Aqua Golf and Putt Putt

2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

huntervalleygardensshopping.com.au