Oh! The Poetic & Dreamy Food Convict Trail Fly Like Never Before

INCLUDES A SPECIAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR SPRING 2012 

Spring 2012 

Oh! The Poetic & 

Dreamy Food 

If you don’t mind catering to your sinful 

indulgences, here is a perfect destination. 

Convict Trail 

Introduction to the detailed history 

of the Great North Road 

Fly Like Never 

Before 

A sublime morning of 

wonderful activity 

H I L L S H A W K E S B U R Y R I V E R L A N D S 

Berowra 

Waters 

“This was an anniversary weekend we 

will all remember for many years to come!” 

Sydney Hills 

Hawkesbury 

01

AUTHENTIC REGIONAL 

INDIAN CUISINE 

SPECIALING IN SEAFOOD 

Live Entertainment 

Mention this 

ad and receive 

a free Welcome 

Drink 

Open all dinners, lunch - Friday, Saturday and Sunday 

BOOK NOW-FATHER’S DAY 

ph: 96 790 790 

233 Annangrove Rd, Annangrove 

www.kashirestaurant.com.au 

Project Managed by Hills, Hawkesbury & Riverlands Tourism

Welcome to the first 

edition of the refreshed 

“ E x p e r i e n c e ” 

magazine. We are 

pleased to work with our new partner, Adelphi 

Design & Print, in bringing this publication to 

you so that you may share in all the wonderful 

activities you have in your own backyard. 

The Hills Hawkesbury tourism area makes up 

the shires of Hills, Hawkesbury and Hornsby and 

combined injects over $370million to the local 

economy. It is a very important industry, not just 

for visitors from afar but for the visiting friends 

and relatives that we have come to the area every 

year. 

We have so much to offer in great, fun experiences. 

Take a moment to look in your backyard and 

support the industry that grows the economy 

as well as provides a great quality of life for its 

residents. 

For more information on our area go to www. 

hhart.com.au or download our own iPhone apps 

from the iTunes store (search ‘Sydney Hills’ & 

‘Hawkesbury’). 

Go have fun! 

Lori Modde 

Published by Hills Hawkesbury & Riverlands Tourism in conjunction 

with Adelphi Design & Print. 

Design & Printing - Adelphi Design & Print, (ACN 62 575 182 443), 

PO Box 149, Glenorie, NSW 2157. www.adelphi.net.au 

All rights reserved. No materials published in this magazine 

may be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written 

authority. Every endeavour is made to ensure information 

contained in this magazine is correct at time of going to print. 

Cover photo - James Pipino, Destination NSW 

From 

The 

Desk 

CEO Hills, Hawkesbury & Riverland’s Tourism 

EDITORIAL & PUBLISHING TEAM 

Lori Modde Diana Paton 

Vicki Brownless Tania Di Stefano 

Advertising Enquiries: Vicki 0423 727 826 

vicki@hhartexperience.com.au 

SPRING 2012 | ISSUE 1 

contents 

stayexperience 

6 EXPERIENCE BEROWRA WATERS 

John & Emily share their wonderful memories 

from the anniversary weekend to remember. 

16 PLUSH & PAMPERED 

Choosing your accommodation is as 

important as the Journey itself. 

20 A WEEKEND OF FAMILY FUN 

Del Rio Riverside Resort & Carinya Ski Ranch 

both with a wide range of luxury options for 

both families and couples. 

diningexperience 

8 OH! THE POETIC & DREAMY FOOD! 

If you don’t mind catering to your sinful 

indulgences, here is a perfect destination. 

14 DELIGHTFUL DELICACIES 

A hand-picked list of restaurants highly 

recommended by previous tourists. 

historicalexperience 

12 CONVICT TRIAL 

An Introduction to the detailed history of 

the Great North Road. 

travelexperience 

18 SPRING CALENDAR 2012 

Your one stop guide to everything in town 

21 WISEMANS TO WINDSOR 

Wander through the Hawkesbury Regioncrossing 

car ferries along Hawkesbury River 

27 FLY LIKE NEVER BEFORE 

Float over the wonderful Hawkesbury. 

Welcome to Hills 

Hawkesbury Riverland 

Address: 61 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Windsor NSW 2756 

Phone: (02) 4577 4222 Fax: (02) 4577 5410 Website: www.sebelhawkesbury.com.au 

www.hhart.com.au 

6 

8 

12 

27

04 

Birthday 

Celebrations 

When you mix good friends with great food then you’re in for a 

great experience. Crowne Plaza Norwest boasts the perfect 

place for your next special event or wedding. Ideally located in 

the heart of the Hills District, overlooking beautiful landscaped gardens 

with views of the idyllic Blue Mountains, we combine contemporary 

style and knowledge to make your event a memorable one. 

We caught up with Rakesh, who hosted his daughters 21st Birthday 

at the hotel recently. He expressed his upmost gratitude towards all 

the staff involved in both the planning and the day of his event, in 

particular the team of chefs who did such a wonderful job continuously 

with a smile. 

The guests who attended the birthday were overwhelmed by the 

excellence and capabilities of the hotel and its staff to conduct such a 

detailed event with the ease of which was shown on the night. Equally 

Rakesh’s guests found the quality, variety and presentation of food was 

above and beyond all their expectations. 

The success for Rakesh though was the exceptional time his daughter 

had at her 21st Birthday Party, truly making the night memorable 

for all involved. At Crowne Plaza, we strive to provide continuing 

excellence; our Crowne Meetings and Events team work hard to ensure 

your next event is impeccable. 

To speak to our Crowne Meeting and Events team call (02) 9634 9634. 

season’s greetings: 

Get into the celebratory spirit this Festive 

Season. For a stress free Christmas 

host your own Christmas party with 

one of our unique packages. Enjoy our 

spectacular grand buffet on Christmas 

Day. Then to bring in the New Year we’ve 

got something special planned. So to 

plan your festive season this year look 

no further than Crowne Plaza Norwest. 

Call (02) 9634 9634 for more information 

BEIJING SHANGHAI SYDNEY OSAKA LONDON NEW YORK HONG KONG OVER 370 LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE 

Project Managed by Hills, Hawkesbury & Riverlands Tourism 

Experience the Trail... 

The Hawkesbury Harvest Farm Gate Trail has, at its heart, not only 

the beautiful Hawkesbury River but also some of Sydney’s oldest 

settlements. The Trail extends to the Blue Mountains, with their 

amazing vistas, crisp air and four distinct seasons. Along the Trail you 

will find farms, orchards, vineyards, vegetables, fruit, wine, stunning 

accommodation and fantastic restaurants using local, seasonal produce. 

What is apparent when you go on the Trail is the passion and dedication 

of each of the producers. For these people holidays are rare. Long 

days, from sunrise to way past sunset, are common. They have survived 

drought and flood. And yet the welcome you receive is warm and 

genuine, as is the courtesy and humour. There is an amazing willingness 

to share knowledge. 

And of course there is the produce itself. Some farms you can take 

the family and pick your own apples, mandarins, oranges, peaches, 

nectarines. At the vegetable farms the produce is so fresh that you 

marvel at the contrast with store bought produce. In season, you can 

grab a bright coloured bucket and collect your own chestnuts. Many 

of these properties are in the most beautiful settings, and close to 

wonderful parks and gardens for a picnic after your exploring. You can 

even cuddle an alpaca. 

Regular Farmers Markets, Castle Hill and Penrith, are another way the 

producers on the Trail are able to showcase their produce. Very often 

there is live music and a wander around the markets will leave you 

laden with fresh fruit and vegetables, eggs, flowers, artisan bread, jams 

and chutneys, cheeses and meat. The chance to talk to the people who 

have worked so hard to bring their produce to the markets is an added 

benefit. 

Exploring the Farm Gate Trail is a feast for the senses - the taste of the 

freshest produce, the fresh air, the beauty of your surroundings.

06 

Experience 

An Anniversary Weekend to Remember 

When we were trying to decide where to hold our 

wedding anniversary, I wanted somewhere we could 

bring all the family. We all have such diverse interests, 

so it was difficult pleasing everybody.... until I found 

Berowra Waters and the Penthouse. 

With 5 bedrooms, lots of bathrooms and a huge 

entertaining area overlooking the water, all our needs 

were met. We planned our weekend with the family, so 

everyone could relax and enjoy their time here, and in the 

evenings we could all come together for dinner, specially 

prepared by a chef recommended by the marina. 

The guys decided Saturday would be a great day for 

fishing. They had already organised a fishing boat from 

the marina and off they went early on Saturday morning. 

CELEBRATE ANY OCCASION 

with a cruise on the Hawkesbury River 

aboard the M.V. Maquarie Princess 

Birthdays 

Anniversaries 

Weddings 

Parties 

Club Days 

Scenic Cruises 

Macquarie 

Princess Cruises 

Berowra Waters 

AWAITING 

APPROVAL 

Macquarie Princess Cruises 

ph: (02) 8402 3702 

contact@macquarieprincesscruises.com.au 

www.macquarieprincesscruises.com.au 


That left us girls and the younger children. We took the 

BBQ boat out for lunch. We had a leisurely drive up the 

river, the scenery was just spectacular, and so many houses 

with river only access! After about an hour we moored the 

boat on a wonderful sandy beach. The children took great 

pleasure in diving off the side of the boat, swimming 

around in the clear water and generally just having fun. 

The small beach inlet was fabulous. We sat, relaxed, read 

and just watched the wildlife (which was more curious of 

us, than us of them - until the children returned from the 

water!). We fired up the BBQ for lunch and marvelled at 

the children having so much fun. My parents sat snoozing 

in the shade on the beach, pretending to read, but those 

nodding heads said it all! After a fabulous day, we slowly 

drove the boat back to Berowra Waters. 

Less 

Less 

than 

than 

an 

an 

hour 

hour 

north 

north of 

of 

the 

the 

Sydney 

Sydney 

CBD, 

CBD, 

the Berowra 

the Berowra 

Waters 

Waters 


Penthouse offers a stress free and indulgent escape in one of whether you’re ju 

Penthouse offers a stress free and indulgent escape in one of Sydney’s 

Sydney’s most picturesque locations. With tranquil waterways looking to berth y 

most picturesque locations. With tranquil waterways and an abundance 

and an abundance of native bush land, Berowra Waters is an area 

of native bush land, Berowra Waters is an area renowned for its natural Berowra Waters 

renowned for its natural beauty. Add the pleasures of gourmet 

beauty. Add the pleasures of gourmet dining; boating, fishing and situated for easy 

dining; boating, fishing and bushwalking at your doorstep and you 

bushwalking at your doorstep and you have the perfect getaway. including Pittwat 

have the perfect getaway. 

The Berowra Waters Penthouse is a fully self-contained luxury apartment With a friendly pr 

The Berowra Waters Penthouse is a fully self-contained 

of generous interests, the ma 

luxury apartment 

proportions, 

of generous 

accommodating 

proportions, 

up 

accommodating 

to ten guests. Featuring 5 

beautifully with dockside ber 

up to ten appointed guests. Featuring bedrooms, 5 beautifully 3 bathrooms, appointed an bedrooms, expansive lounge/ 

entertaining security and the 

3 bathrooms, area an and expansive commercial lounge/entertaining grade kitchen, area and you are ensured 

plenty commercial of space for grade everyone kitchen, to you relax are ensured and enjoy plenty the of surrounds. space for 

Facilities shore si 

everyone to relax and enjoy the surrounds. 

delicatessen, gen 

shop, café and se 

199 Bay Road, Berowra Waters, NSW 2082 

02 9456 7000 

info@berowrawatersmarina.com.au 

berowrawaterspenthouse.com.au

Berowra 

Waters 

It was wonderful to have 3 bathrooms in the Penthouse, 

we all could spend as much time as we needed in the 

shower, getting ready for dinner. Dinner was just suberb 

- a seafood platter - cooked to perfection, with fresh 

seasonal vegetables and an array of yummy deserts! 

So much nicer when you don’t have to cook it yourself. 

We spent the evening on the balcony, chatting, admiring 

the views, listening to life on the water. 

We all awoke on Sunday morning to a lovely sunny day 

again. Today we split into three groups. The older 

group had booked a cruise on the Macquarie Princess, 

a lovely tour and luncheon cruise up the river. Some of 

Berowra Waters Marina offers the 

erowra Waters perfect Marina boating offers the getaway, perfect whether boating getaway, 

hether you’re you’re just passing just passing through through on a coastal on a cruise or 

oking to berth coastal your cruise boat long or looking term in an to idyllic berth location. your 

boat long term in an idyllic location. 

erowra Waters Marina is a privately owned marina ideally 

tuated for 199 easy Bay boating Road, access Berowra to Waters, many of NSW Sydney’s 2082waterways 

cluding Pittwater, Cowan 02 9456 Creek and 7000 the Hawkesbury. 

info@berowrawatersmarina.com.au 

ith a friendly professional team looking after your boating 

www.berowrawatersmarina.com.au 

terests, the marina offers a comprehensive range of services 

ith dockside berthing or swing moorings, secure parking, dock 

curity and the benefit of an on site manager. 

cilities shore side include unleaded and diesel fuel, a gourmet 

licatessen, general store stocking bait, gas and ice, bottle 

op, café and seafood restaurant. 

Boutique Private Charters 

Imagine cruising on Berowra Creek with the backdrop of 

majestic sandstone escarpments, you can relax and drift back 

in time away from the hassles of the city... 


Bookings & Enquiries - (02) 9456 4788 

Email - aqualitycruises@live.com.au 

www.aqualitycruises.com 

The range of vessels available at Berowra Waters Marina will 

ensure that whatever your requirements are you will be able to 

enjoy the surrounding areas. 

‘Private Floating Restaurant’ 

Experience your own unique private charter on board the ‘MV Elsie May’. 

Create a personalised menu with our chef. Sit down dining available for 2 - 8 guests. 

Fully licensed bar. Perfect for any special occasion. 

BBQ BOAT 

The BBQ Boat is licensed for twelve 

people, including children. It has a sun 

awning, FM radio, toilet/changing area, 

swim ladder and of course a BBQ. No 

licence is required to drive Ku-ring-gai this boat. It Chase National Park 

is safe for children having an all-round 

railing and is also wheelchair • friendly. No license required 

TINNIES 

The tinnies that are available for hire 

are fitted with 6 hp outboards. No 

licence is required to hire these boats, 

they are licenced for six people including 

children. Fuel is included in hire and 

lifejackets are supplied. 

KAYAKS 

We have single and double kayaks for 

hire. Both are very stable and ideal 

for beginners and for the calm waters 

found around Berowra Creek. 

Fishing in Berowra Creek can be good all year round. This salt 

Photo Courtesy : Berowra Waters Membership Group 

the guys and the older children decided to hire kayaks 

and paddle downstream, and the last group decided to 

venture along the Great North Walk towards Crosslands 

Reserve. 

By the late afternoon, we all met back at the Berowra 

Fish Cafe for afternoon tea, before packing up to 

head home. We had a wonderful weekend at Berowra 

Waters. There were so many things to do, such 

spectacular scenery, so many friendly locals. This was 

an anniverary weekend we will all remember for many 

years to come. 

John & Emily Mitchell and Extended Family 

Cruise Hawkesbury River, Pittwater & 

• Houseboat and cruisers for 2-10 people 

• Day Hire & picnic boat (max 8 people) 

www.relaxationboathire.com.au 

info@relaxationboathire.com.au 

02 9450 0000 

BEROWRA WATERS BOAT SHED 

Berowra Waters, NSW, 2082 

PO Box 1017 Berowra Waters, NSW 2082 


07

08 

Address: 61 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Windsor NSW 2756 

Phone: (02) 4577 4222 Fax: (02) 4577 5410 Website: www.sebelhawkesbury.com.au 


Oh, the Poetic 

& Dreamy Food! 

If you don’t mind catering to your sinful indulgences, here is your perfect destination. 

Poetic and dreamy, I feel like Alice taken down the 

proverbial rabbit hole and into a fanciful place 

where pleasure is serious business. A lady of 

leisure for two hours, yes I can afford that. And at $39 

per person, so can my best girlfriends! 

The girls and I had been procrastinating about our promised 

catch up for months before we saw the announcement of High 

Tea at The Sebel Resort & Spa Hawkesbury Valley. This messy 

web of missed calls and late text replies laced with guilt led 

us to agree we weren’t waiting on an excuse to see each other, 

just a good reason! 

That good reason became a great afternoon filled with long 

overdue real-life status updates and deliciously tasty morsels, 

served with the utmost respect for the aristocratic pastime that 

is High Tea. It was a truly dignified affair; from the drive in set 

against an awe-inspiring backdrop of the Blue Mountains and 

the zen effect of the lake, to the welcoming manner with which 

we were treated from booking to ‘Bill, please’ and, leaving the 

best to last, the food! Oh, The Food! 

The Australiana Pioneer Village 

Open Every 

Sunday 10am-4pm 

other days by 

appointment 

You know how you subconsciously decide in what order to 

devour the offerings laid before you for the maximum pleasure? 

Well…the best was last, and first, and in the middle! The light 

fluffiness of the scones, the delicate mayonnaise on the gourmet 

sandwiches, the sinfully decadent chocolate, the comforting 

reassurance of a decent English Breakfast…it all moved me to 

a sentiment more attune to an indiscriminate mother of 7 who 

claims to “truly love them all equally!”. 

The tranquil water fountains seemed to have a flow-on effect 

resulting in caring efficient staff, a comfortable and inviting 

atmosphere and the harmonious combinations of sweet and 

savoury – if one were of the New Age school of thought, one might 

even say Feng Shui has been mastered here. 

For your own mouth-watering macaroons and fond memories, 

bookings for High Tea at The Sebel Resort & Spa Hawkesbury 

Valley are available every Friday and Sunday afternoon, from 

September 1, 2012. 

Call (02) 4577 4222 or visit www.sebelhawkesbury.com.au 


09

10 

Offers a range of accommodation to suit all budgets, including powered and unpowered 

sites, caravans, cabins and a newly renovated house overlooking the river. 

It is also an ideal spot for youth camps, with plenty of 

open grass areas, a swimming pool and a boat ramp. 

505 Pitt Town Bottoms Rd Pitt Town Bottoms NSW 2756 

02 4572-3733 

info@hawkesburycaravanpark.com.au 

www.hawkesburycaravanpark.com.au/ 

H I G H L Y R E C O M M E N D E D B Y T O M & M A R Y A F T E R T H E I R S T A Y 

My wife and I enjoy traveling with our Windsor town. It’s a 30 minute easy walk starting at the Windsor 

caravan around all areas of the state, Courthouse at Court & Pitt Street, then onto the Courthouse Inn. There 

but we particularly love the Hawkesbury is considerable history to be read here before moving onto Arndell and 

Region. It’s where we grew up and George Street with the brick chimneys and Federation buildings. I’m a 

where our children live. When we come great lover of early settlement and architecture and I find these areas 

back to see our family, we always stop particularly interesting. My father was a builder, so it takes me back 

at the Hawkesbury Riverside Tourist down memory lane when he would describe these building methods to 

Park. We love the peace and tranquility of the park. We have me and sometimes I would help him with his building jobs when I was off 

evening strolls along the riverfront and enjoy nice walks up to the village. school. The walk continues down George Street and onto Bridge Street, 

It’s a place we feel safe and the other residents are always so friendly. where the buildings are more into the Macquarie period. The walk 

This is also a great location to drive out to enjoy the historic sites of the finishes at the Macquarie Arms, the oldest building in the Thompson 

Hawkesbury. We particularly like the "Walk on the Wild Side” through Square. 

• Bus & Coach Hire for any occasion 

• Weddings, Race Days & Special Events 

• Hawkesbury Heritage Tours 

• Farm Gate Trail Tours 

• Sydney Boutique Winery Tour 

• 12-21 Seat Mini-Buses 

• 49-72 Seat Luxury Coaches 

• 49-70 Seat School Buses 

02 4573 6181 

www.goodazgoldtours.com.au 


Wine Tasting 

SYDNEY BOUTIQUE WINERY TOUR 

Travel out to the foothills of the Penrith Valley where we’ll stop at the 

famous Vickery’s Winery to enjoy a taste test of their wines and other 

local varieties. We then travel to the only Australian Sake Brewery 

(Japanese Rice Wine), learn how Sake is made and tour through the 

factory. We then head to the historic Hawkesbury district for lunch in the 

town of Windsor. Next to the heritage listed winery of “Tizzana” to hear 

from the owner about his wine making process and the history of the 

heritage listed building. Then we cross over the beautiful Hawkesbury 

River in a car ferry onto our last winery for the day, “Talai Estate”. This 

unique winery has been built from the ground up by the owner as an out 

of control hobby. Learn of his passion for wine and also about the Predinosaur 

footprints found in the rock shelf whilst the cellar was being 

created. 

Tour cost includes: Light lunch, Entry, Wine Tasting, Cheese & Bickies. 

“Just a short note to say how much we enjoyed the Winery tour. 

The taste tests were superb, seeing the grapes grown and the 

wines made was amazing. Such friendly 

and hospitable wine estate owners with so much 

knowledge of their craft. The light-heared 

atmosphere aboard the bus was great together 

with the detailed history of the areas . 

we travelled through. 

We will have no hesitation on 

using your services again. 

Joe M, Penrith.

Dreamed of riding a Harley Davidson? 

Ride for an hour, or a whole day! 

Where would you like to go? 

Who would you like to go with? 

Blue Thunder Down Under! 

Hawkesbury Sketchbook Tour 

Saturday, 27 October 2012 

Hawkesbury Valley Heritage Tours will be running a relaxed, full day coach 

tour through the most historic areas of the Hawkesbury in conjunction 

with artist Greg Hansell’s annual studio exhibition. 

Included will be a tour of the Peninsula area of Windsor, viewing Tebbutt’s 

Observatory, Windsor Court House, the Toll House and North Street 

cottages, dating from c1840s. 

The tour will head to Pitt Town, driving through the area of some of the 

first settlement farms (1794), then to Ebenezer Church and Wilberforce 

before we travel back to Windsor for a driving tour, viewing St Matthew’s 

Anglican Church and cemetery, the exteriors of the Bell Inn, St Matthew’s 

Catholic Church, historic house Crescentville and other historic areas 

of Windsor. After travelling to Richmond to view the exteriors of several 

historic buildings in Richmond, the tour travels through the Richmond 

Lowlands farming area. 

Morning tea, wine-tasting, lunch, coach and full commentary included. 

The tour concludes with a visit to Greg Hansell’s studio and garden in 

Windsor at 5.00pm, where we will enjoy a tour and a well-earned glass 

of wine and a talk with the artist. 9.30am to 5.00pm. Cost $75. Further 

details will be provided at time of booking. 

Contact Carol or Geoff on 02 4577 6882 

or email info@hawkesburytours.com.au 

Blue Thunder 

DOWNUNDER 

WANT TO HAVE THE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE? 

BLUE THUNDER DOWNUNDER 

CAN MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE... 

Three of Sydney’s leading tour companies 

have combined to bring you the 

ultimate way to experience Sydney – from the 

back of a Harley Davidson ® 

Phone 1300 258 384 

email: bluethunder10@bigpond.com 

www.bluethunderdownunder.com.au 

HAWKESBURY VALLEY 

HERITAGE TOURS 

Telephone: 02 4577 6882 

Fax: 02 4577 6952 

Email: info@hawkesburytours.com.au 

Web: www.hawkesburytours.com.au 

Guide service for coach groups and visitors to the 

historic towns of the Hawkesbury. Experience the 

Hawkesbury with a sixth-generation descendant of 

the pioneers. The flexibility of our service allows us 

to provide guides for special-interest groups, and 

escorted self-drive tours can be arranged. Visit: 

• The historic towns of Windsor, Richmond, Pitt 

Town, Wilberforce, Ebenezer and Kurrajong 

• Historic buildings including Australia’s oldest 

church at Ebenezer and Macquarie-era 

buildings in the Hawkesbury 

• ‘Wandin Valley’ sites from the television 

series A Country Practice 

• Artists painting sites, and more! 


11

12 

Introduction to a detailed history 

of the Great North Road 


Imagine yourself arriving in Sydney 

back in the 1820s as a middle class free 

settler with capital to invest in farmland. 

Most of the good land around Sydney 

and out to the west has been taken 

up already and there is not much left 

around. 

“Using only hand tools and 

assisted by a few bullocks, 

toiling away in summer and 

winter with little protection 

from the elements and 

living on the monotonous 

rations...” 

Up north, a penal settlement in Newcastle 

is moved to Port Macquarie and the area 

is no longer off-limits. Suddenly there is 

plenty of virgin land up for grabs. But 

how to get there? The only practical way 

is by sea, fighting the southerly current 

under sail. Not appealing, if you have 

just spent six months being sea-sick on 

the way out from England. 

Between Sydney and the Hunter River 

is a maze of fearsome sandstone 

mountains with deep gorges and razorback 

ridges which suddenly end in 

towering bluffs. The area is criss-crossed 

with Aboriginal tracks but only the 

makers know where these go. Desperate 

settlers are swimming their stock over 

the Hawkesbury River and making their 

way along the rugged creeks, clearing 

the swampy flats and being washed 

away in the periodical floods. There is 

no proper road through. This is the story 

of the building of the Great North Road, 

supposedly the answer to the problem 

of access to the Hunter Valley. 

Ebenezer Church 

Australia’s oldest existing church. 

Drop by for devonshire teas, books, craft and souvenirs. 

Besides individual tourists, families and small groups of 

friends, Ebenezer Church caters for car clubs and coach 

groups. 

‘We needn’t have worried about asking our guests 

to travel so far – all the comments from them 

describe what a magical place Ebenezer is, and 

what a highlight afternoon tea was!’ 

Using only hand tools and assisted by 

a few bullocks, toiling away in summer 

and winter with little protection from 

the elements and living on monotonous 

rations of meat, flour and corn meal 

food, several thousand convicts were 

employed to build the road over a period 

of nearly ten years. Their lives were hard 

but the road is a monument to their 

endurance and to the abilities which 

many showed in the work they did. This 

and other roads enabled the whole area 

between Sydney and Newcastle to be 

opened up. The young settlement of 

Sydney began to develop into the nation 

that is Australia today. 

Fortunately, some of the decline in its 

use protected it from final destruction 

and the subsequent decisions on 

preservation of the road have led to 

investigations which are fascinating in a 

wide variety of aspects. 

“The Government and its 

officials could see the need 

for the road and had the 

vision of a road as good as 

any in England.” 

The spread of the population to the 

north of Sydney and particularly to 

the district around the Hunter River 

produced the desire to have a good road 

communication system to the Hunter 

region. The use of sailing ships up the 

coast had been the only way and that 

was fraught with problems caused 

by weather conditions and the strong 

southerly flowing current. Wrecks were 

a common occurrence. 

The Government and its officials could 

see the need for the road and had 

the vision of a road as good as any in 

England. A grand vision was born, urged 

on by Sir Thomas Mitchell, the Surveyor 

General. He was criticised roundly by 

many for his attempt at making this 

road a monument to his own glory. 

Background to the grand vision will 

develop as each section sets out to show. 

“The spread of the population to the 

north of Sydney and particularly to 

the district around the Hunter River 

produced the desire to have a good road 

system...” 

The Route which the road should take 

had many alternatives. Various people 

had developed their own line for road 

communication. The factors which they 

advanced often had personal ulterior 

motives but some factors which could 

have been important appeared to be 

ignored such as the availability of grass, 

water and reasonable gradients in the 

road itself. The characters of people 

involved and the suggestions they put 

forward are explored wherever possible. 

Finally we are confronted with the 

decline in maintenance of the road 

and the deviation from the Great North 

Road which was taken by those who 

saw the difficult sections of the road 

as unacceptable. It was the impact 

of the introduction of steamships, 

running between Sydney and Newcastle, 

that tolled the seeming death knell 

for this wonderful piece of road with 

its marvellous stonework, drains and 

road surface made to the then new 

technologies developed in England by 

Telford and Macadam. 

Taken from http://www.convicttrail.org 

where the full story can be accessed. 

Ebenezer Church 

established in 1809 and is 

Australia’s oldest existing church 

Visit Ebenezer Church, its colonial graveyard 

and the nearby Schoolmaster’s House. 

Open daily for devonshire teas, books, 

craft, jams and souvenirs. 

10.00am to 3.00pm 

www.ebenezerchurch.org.au 

95 Coromandel Road, 

Ebenezer, 2756 

Phone 

02 4579 9350 


13

14 

Delightful Delicacies 

“ MezeMe Cafe, 

where locals meet ” 

Ph: (02) 8824 4999 

Mungerie House 

Bellcast Rd, Rouse Hill, 2155 

www.mezeme.com.au 

I came across the Australian Home Cheese Making stall at Glenorie 

Growers’ Market and booked a workshop. John & Juan’s enthusiasm 

and passion for their farming practices and cheese-making was 

inspiring. Over the course of the day, we were led through the 

techniques of turning raw milk into curds and whey, and eventually 

into our very own Camembert cheese. Much attention was paid 

to sterilisation methods and the precise timing of various stages 

required to achieve an excellent result. The conversation flowed 

freely, everyone keen to pick up hints and ideas about ‘foodie’ stuff. 

Finally, our Camembert ‘babies’ were ready to wrap and take home 

to finish the ripening and maturing processes. We gathered together 

again to enjoy a magnificent cheese platter and a glass of wine to 

celebrate a very satisfying and enjoyable day, our heads filled with 

plans of future cheese-making endeavours 

Are you a budding chef? 

Or just a foodie? 

We will help you get it right! 

If you love to eat, 

you’ll love Urban Graze. 

MORE THAN 1200 CLASSES CONDUCTED 

OFFERING 55 DIFFERENT REGIONAL CUISINES 

Call Now & Book Your 

Classes. Get Started 

6 PATTERSON AVE, KELLYVILLE NSW 2155 9862 3042 E COOK@URBANGRAZE.COM.AU 

WWW.URBANGRAZE.COM.AU 


Vicki B. 

I love the food served at MezeMe. It’s easy, convenient, local 

and the prices are great! I was so impressed I decided to have 

my Hens Party there. It was an Afternoon Tea event for 25 of my 

friends and family. The different taste sensations from Moroccan, 

Middle Eastern and French on the mixed Meze plates were just 

ideal for this type of event. Everyone commented on how great 

the food was. The location of the venue was good too, lots of 

places to park. Since my Hens Party I’ve been back a number of 

times. More recently I tried out their MezeMe Big Breakfast. The 

servings are generous, so I’ve never walked away hungry! It really 

is a place I recommend to my friends. 

If you love cheese, you are 

welcome to come and learn 

how to make it with us! 

Corrinne 

Sydney’s premier hands-on cooking school is located in Kellyville 

in the Hills District of Sydney offering three hour cooking classes 

that focus on high quality, non-intimidating food education. 

Since August 2006, Urban Graze has been offering hands-on 

cooking classes with over 1200 classes conducted. We offer 

over 55 different styles of regional cuisines, more than any 

other cooking school in Australia. Our recipes and food rates 

second to none. We strive to provide a fun and relaxed cooking 

environment where our guests learn modern cooking skills 

through our hands-on classes. As the class progresses we 

enjoy some wine with the meal as a group at the dining table. 

“...We make everything from scratch unlike most other 

caterers - we even make our own butter by hand...” 

Urban Graze uses high quality restaurant crockery and Riedel 

crystal glassware, along with some of the best and unique 

kitchenware available with complimentary wine also offered with 

each class. Our amazing kitchen has been designed by Kastell 

Kitchens and features over 11 of the latest appliances from 

Smeg and has been specially designed for intimate hands-on 

cooking classes for up to 10 people.

eat in fine local restaurants 

sleep in romantic getaways 

shop in interesting boutiques 

83 Old Bells Line of Road Kurrajong Village 

NSW, Australia, 2758 

Phone: (02) 45 730 988 

Dine in a gallery. Magnificent views. 

Stylish ideas for your home. 

We are a vibrant café, gallery and 

home wares store, serving contemporary 

Australian food, located in picturesque 

Kurrajong Village at the foothills of the 

Blue Mountains. Boutique wine list from 

the Orange Mudge region. 

www.sassafrascreek.com.au 

www.hawkesburyhighlands.com.au 

Short history of Tizzana Winery 

Thomas Henry Fiaschi was born in Florence in 1853. At the age 

of 22 he migrated to Australia. In 1882 he purchased some 230 

acres at Sackville Reach and soon after planted 5 acres of grapes 

as an experiment. This led to the establishment of a vineyard of 

55 acres by 1889. To handle the vintage Dr Fiaschi built Tizzana 

Winery in 1887. Following the death of Dr Fiaschi, and severe 

vandalism and fire, the buildings were left as ruins. 

In 1969 the restoration of the crumbling ruins was begun by 

Peter and Carolyn Auld. Living quarters were re-established on 

the second floor and the cellars kept as original as possible. The 

building stands today as a testimony to two outstanding historical 

developments of the Hawkesbury. Tizzana Winery has much to offer 

visitors to the Windsor region. The National Trust classified building 

again manufactures its own wines from grapes grown on the 

property. Some 5 acres of vines were replanted in 1980 (Cabernet 

Sauvignon, Shiraz, Muscat and Aleatico varieties) and an additional 

4 acres of olive trees have since been planted. Plans are in place 

to double the size of plantings in the coming years. Tastings of 

house wines and wines bottled under the Tizzana Selection label 

can be arranged. Group luncheon or dinner functions with homemade 

treats from our commercial kitchen can be arranged by 

calling the proprietors, Carolyn and Peter Auld. Our Olive Branch 

range of products can also be sourced at the winery. Est. 1887. 

The café is an open inviting space with stunning views serving light 

lunch time fare, beautiful dinners on Friday and Saturday nights, 

delicious morning and afternoon teas and great breakfasts. 

Oktoberfest 

28th, 29th 30th September : Dinner Friday and Saturday 

Night, Lunch Saturday and Sunday. 

Our German chef, Thomas Ege, is preparing a traditional 

celebration of German food and beer. Enjoy white sausage and 

sweet mustard, pork knuckle, kaiserschmarn or hot raspberries 

and ice cream. Come and enjoy the atmosphere of traditional 

Bavarian hospitality. 

Home wares 

Women’s fashion 

Children’s books and toys 

Tuesday - Sunday 9am - 5pm 

70 Old Bells Line of Road 

Kurrajong Village 

P: 4573 1920 

TIZZANA WINERY 

OPEN 12 noon to 6 pm 

Saturday, Sunday 

& Public Holidays 

Other Times by Appointment 

518 Tizzana Road, Ebenezer 

Phone: (02) 4579 1150 

www.tizzana.com.au 


15

16 

SEPTEMBER 

1-Sep Native Bees Workshop Hawkesbury Region 9.30-11.30am www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events 

1-Sep Race meet for Leukaemia Foundation (Charity) Hawkesbury Race Club, 

Clarendon 

10.30 start www.hawkesburyraceclub.com.au 

2-Sep Father’s Day breakfast & brunch at Crowne Plaza Norwest Baulkham Hills 7am-1.30pm www.crowneplazanorwest.com.au 

2-Sep Father’s Day lunch at Riverside Oaks Golf Resort Cattai 11.30am start www.riversideoaks.com.au 

2-Sep Father’s Day breakfast & lunch at Sassafras Creek Kurrajong Village 9am-5pm www.sassafrascreek.com.au 

2-Sep Father’s Day lunch at Kashi Indian Restaurant Annangrove 12pm-3pm www.kashirestaurant.com.au 

2-Sep Golden Ridge Animal Farm Open Day Dural 11am start www.goldenridgeanimalfarm.com.au 

2-Sep Father’s Day Penny Fathings & Antique Machinery Australiana Pioneer Village 10am-4pm www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 

2-Sep Father’s Day BBQ Lunch at Lynwood Country Club Pitt Town 11.30 start www.lynwoodcc.com.au 

2-Sep Father’s Day - Play and Eat at Wisemans Wisemans Ferry 9.30am-3pm www.wisemans.com.au 

7-Sep The Hills Shire Guided Walks Program: Night Walk North Rocks 6.30pm-8.30pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

8-Sep Wizards School of Magic Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah 11am + 1pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

8-Sep Art exhibtion opening at Sassafras Creek Kurrajong Village 3pm-5pm www.sassafrascreek.com.au 

8-Sep Hawkesbury Harvest Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Markets Castle Hill 8am-12pm www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au 


8-Sep Markets at the Garden Regal Gdns Annangrove 8am-3pm 0423 822 606 

9-Sep Australiana Pioneer Village Wilberforce 10am-4pm www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 


9-Sep Chipping for mulch day - Free for Hornsby Shire Residents Galston 8am - 2.45pm (02) 9847 4856 

9-Sep Sustainable House Day Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah 9am-5pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

9-Sep Macquarie Princess Cruises Afternoon Tea Cruise Berowra Waters Marina 3pm-5pm www.macquarieprincesscruises.com.au 

13-Sep Hawkesbury Race Club Race meet for Pink Finss (Charity) Clarendon 10.30am start www.hawkesburyraceclub.com.au 

13-Sep Steven Spellmaster Windsor 7pm-10pm www.windsorrsl.com.au 

14-Sep Ghost Tours - The Australiana Pioneer Village Wilberforce 7pm-10pm www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 

15-Sep The Hills Shire Guided Walks Program: Blue Gum Creek Walk Kenthurst 10am-12pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

16-Sep The Bushland Shire Festival Galston 10am-4pm www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whats-on 


16-Sep Jazz at The Pines Dural 12.30pm-4pm www.hhart.com.au 

22-Sep Native Plant Giveaway (only available to certain Hornsby residents) Galston 1pm-3pm (02) 9847 6832 

22-Sep State-wide growers’ waratah bloom competition & display Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah 9am-5pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

22-Sep Hawkesbury Harvest Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Markets Castle Hill 8am-12pm www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au 

23-Sep The Hills Shire Guided Walks: Breakfast with the Birds Castle Hill 8am-10.30am www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

23-Sep Jazz @ Wisemans Riverbend Restaurant Wisemans Ferry 12pm-3pm www.wisemans.com.au 

23-Sep Glenorie Growers Market Glenorie 8am-1pm www.glenoriegrowers.com.au 


23-Sep Glenorie Growers Market Glenorie 8am-1pm www.glenoriegrowers.com.au 

24-Sep Mind your Manners-kids activities Rouse Hill 10am-11.30am www.hht.net.au/whats_on/events 

25-Sep Kids Activities in the Eco Garden Galston 10am-1pm (02) 9847 4856 

26-Sep Vision Valley Adventure Day Camp Arcadia 8.30am-5pm www.visionvalley.org.au 


27-Sep The Hills Shire Guided Walks: Seville Reserve Bushwalk North Rocks 9.30am-11.30am www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

27-Sep Race meet for Hawkesbury Valley Rugby Union Club Under Hawkesbury Race Club, 10.30am start www.hawkesburyraceclub.com.au 

15’s 2013 New Zealand Tour 

Clarendon 

28-Sep HYPE Band Night Castle Hill 6pm-10pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/youth.html 

28-Sep Asian Market Night at Australis Retreat at Wisemans Wisemans Ferry 6pm-8pm www.wisemans.com.au 

28-Sep Oktoberfest at Sassafras Creek Kurrrajong Village 6.30pm-late www.sassafrascreek.com.au 


29-Sep Children’s Waratah Workshop Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

29-Sep Launch of Waratah inspired Australian designed scarves Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

29-Sep Oktoberfest at Sassafras Creek Kurrrajong Village 12-3pm/6.30-late www.sassafrascreek.com.au 

29-Sep Moonlight and Magic Lanterns Rouse Hill 7.30pm-10pm www.hht.net.au/whats_on/events 

29-Sep Ebenezer Church Spring Fair Ebenezer 9am-3pm (02) 4575 1541 

30-Sep Gadara Wildflowers Farm Open Day Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah 9am-5pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

30-Sep Oktoberfest at Sassafras Creek Kurrrajong Village 12pm-3pm www.sassafrascreek.com.au 

30-Sep Tunes on the Terrace at Riverside Oaks Cattai 12pm start www.riversideoaks.com.au 


For events and activities across the Hills Shire libraries visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/library 

For events and activities across the Hawkesbury City libraries visit www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/libraryactivities 

For events and activities across the Hornsby Shire libraries visit www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/library 



2-Oct Vision Valley Adventure Day Camp Arcadia 

2-Oct Vision Valley Spring Holiday Camp day 1 Arcadia 

3-Oct The Hills Shire Guided Walks: Seville Reserve Bushwalk North Rocks 

3-Oct Mind your Manners-kids activities Rouse Hill 



5-Oct HYPE Band Night Castle Hill 


5-Oct Mind your Manners-kids activities Rouse Hill 

6-Oct Native Fauna Workshop 

6-Oct Wilderness Walk to Tomah Spur Botanic Gdn 

6-Oct Special guided tours Botanic Gdn 

7-Oct Food, Wine & Music Festival meet - Hawkesbury Race Club Clarendon 


7-Oct Australiana Pioneer Village, All Cultures Day Wilberforce 

9-Oct Kimbriki Tour & Eco Gardening Talk Ingleside 

10-Oct Wilderness Walk to Tomah Spur Botanic Gdn 

12-Oct ‘Nunsense’ a production by Dural Musical Society Dural 

13-Oct Eco Garden Basics Workshop Galston 


13-Oct ‘Designing with Nature’- Walk, Talk and Workshop Botanic Gdn 

13-Oct Hawkesbury Harvest Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Markets Castle Hill 

13-Oct Wisemans Ferry Golf Club Invitational - Australis Retreat Wisemans Fe 

13-Oct Markets at the Garden Regal Gdns A 

13-Oct ‘Nunsense’ a production by Dural Mnsical Society Dural 

14-Oct The Hills Shire Guided Walks Program: Wildflower Ramble Dural 

14-Oct Australiana Pioneer Village Wilberforce 


14-Oct Cumberland Forest Fair West Pennan 


14-Oct Macquarie Princess Cruises Afternoon Tea Cruise Berowra Wat 

18-Oct Hawkesbury race club race meet for Richmond Club Sup- Clarendon 

porting New Haven Farm (Charity) 


20-Oct Pop up Park, Old Northern Road Castle Hill 

20-Oct Art exhibtion opening at Sassafras Creek Kurrrajong Vi 


21-Oct Australiana Pioneer Village Wilberforce 

21-Oct Chipping for mulch day Mt Kuring-G 


21-Oct Jazz at The Pines Dural 

25-Oct Sydney Blues & Roots Festival Windsor 

25-Oct Jazz at Wisemans Riverbend Restaurant Wisemans Fe 

25-Oct Hawkesbury Race Club race meet Clarendon 




27-Oct Hawkesbury Harvest Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Markets Castle Hill 

27-Oct Moonlight and Magic Lanterns Rouse Hill 

27-Oct Hawkesbury Sketchbook Tour Hawkesbury 


27-Oct Kurrajong Scarecrow Festival Kurrajong Vil 


28-Oct Glenorie Growers Markets Glenorie 

28-Oct The Hills Shire Guided Walks: Flannel Flowers and Flax Lilies Knightsbridg 

28-Oct Tunes on the Terrace at Riverside Oaks Cattai 

28-Oct Jazz @ Wisemans Riverbend Restaurant Wisemans Fe 

28-Oct Glenorie Growers Market Glenorie 

28-Oct Australiana Pioneer Village, All Souls Day Ceremony Wilberforce 

28-Oct Kurrajong Scarecrow Festival Kurrajong Vil 

30-Oct Jazz at Sassafras Creek with Ian Date Kurrrajong Vi

The events listed here include some government and community run events across the region. Information was correct at time of printing. Please 

contact the event directly for most up to date information and to confirm if there are any charges or if you need to make a booking. Enjoy! 

Long Running Events 

01 Sep - 09 Sep 2012 Hawkesbury River Source to Sea Hawkesbury /Nepean River www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events 

01 Sep - 30 Nov Adventure Quest - Pollinator Power Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

14-24 September Orange Blossom Festival Hills Shire www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Orange-Blossom-Festival.html 

22 Sep - 07 Oct Golden Ridge Animal Farm: school holidays Golden Ridge Animal Farm www.goldenridgeanimalfarm.com.au 

22 Sep - 07 Oct Wild About Waratahs Festival Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

22 Sep - 07 Oct Baby Animal encounters Featherdale Wildlike Park www.featherdale.com.au 

Regular Events 

Friday night dining at Riverside Oaks Golf Resort 74 O’Briens Road, Cattai 6:30pm start www.riversideoaks.com.au 

High Tea at the Sebel, every Friday and Sunday 61 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Windsor 1pm-4pm www.sebelhawkesbury.com.au 

Brunch at Crowne Plaza Norwest every Sunday 1 Columbia Court, Baulkham Hills 11:30am-1:30pm www.crowneplazanorwest.com.au 

8.30am-5pm www.visionvalley.org.au 

9am start www.visionvalley.org.au 

1.30pm-3.30pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

10am-11.30pm www.hht.net.au/whats_on/events 

www.visionvalley.org.au 

www.visionvalley.org.au 

6pm-10pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/youth.html 

3pm finish www.visionvalley.org.au 

10am-11.30pm www.hht.net.au/whats_on/events 

9am-1pm www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events 

Mount Tomah 10am-5pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

Mount Tomah Depart 11am + 1pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

10.30am start www.hawkesburyraceclub.com.au 


10am-4pm www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 

8.45am-2.30pm (02) 9847 4856 (free to Hornsby Shire residents) 

Mount Tomah 10am-5pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

8pm start www.duralmusicalsociety.org 

10am-12.30pm (02) 9847 4856 (free to Hornsby Shire residents) 


Mount Tomah 10.30-12.30pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

8am-12pm www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au 

rry 7.30pm-12.30pm www.wfgc.com.au 

nnangrove 8am-3pm 0423 822 606 


10am-12pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 



t Hills 10am-3.30pm www.forests.nsw.gov.au 


ers Marina 3pm-5pm www.macquarieprincesscruises.com.au 



www.thehills.nsw.gov.au 

llage 3m-5pm www.sassafrascreek.com.au 



ai 8am-2.45pm (02) 9847 4856 (free for Hornsby Shire Residents) 


12.30pm-4pm www.hhart.com.au 

various times www.sydneybluesfestival.com.au 

rry 12pm-3pm www.wisemans.com.au 





8am-12pm www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au 

7.30pm-10pm www.hht.net.au/whats_on/events 

Region 9.30am start www.hawkesburytours.com.au 


lage 9am-4pm www.kurrajong.org.au/kjscare.html 


8am-1pm www.glenoriegrowers.com.au 

e 10am-12pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

12pm start www.riversideoaks.com.au 

rry 12pm-3pm www.wisemans.com.au 

8am-1pm www.glenoriegrowers.com.au 


lage 9am-4pm www.kurrajong.org.au/kjscare.html 

llage 6.30pm www.sassafrascreek.com.au 

2-Nov Ghost Tours - The Australiana Pioneer Village Wilberforce 7pm-10pm www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 

3-Nov The Hills Shire Guided Walks Program: Waterfall Walk Carlingford 10am-12pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

4-Nov Paws in the Park and 5,000 Steps Castle Hill 10am-3pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Paws-in-the-Park.html 

4-Nov Australiana Pioneer Village, Old time craft and skills day Wilberforce 10am-4pm www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 

and antique appraisals 

6-Nov Melbourne Cup at Crowne Plaza Norwest Baulkham Hills 12pm-4pm www.crowneplazanorwest.com.au 

6-Nov Melbourne Cup at Lynwood Country Club Pitt Town 12pm start www.lynwoodcc.com.au 

6-Nov Composting and Worm Farming Workshop Hornsby 9.30am-11.30am (02) 9847 4856 (free to Hornsby Shire residents) 

8-Nov Hawkesbury Race Club race meet for Panthers 

Hawkesbury Gold Cup/Skin Fitness Ladies Day and 

Fashions on the Field Raceday 

Clarendon 10.30am start www.hawkesburyraceclub.com.au 

10-Nov Hawkesbury Harvest Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Castle Hill 8am-12pm www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au 

Markets 

10-Nov Markets at the Garden Regal Gdns Annangrove 8am-3pm 0423 822 606 

10-Nov Arcadian Artists Exhibition & Art Trail Arcadia / Galston / Dural 9am-5pm www.arcadianartists.com.au 

11-Nov Arcadian Artists Exhibition & Art Trail Arcadia / Galston / Dural 9am-5pm www.arcadianartists.com.au 

11-Nov Australiana Pioneer Village Wilberforce 10am-4pm www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 

11-Nov Macquarie Princess Cruises Afternoon Tea Cruise Berowra Waters Marina 3pm-5pm www.macquarieprincesscruises.com.au 

12-Nov Recylcing Tour Hornsby 8.45pm-12.30pm (02) 9847 4856 (free to Hornsby Shire residents) 

16-Nov The Hills Shire Guided Walks Program: Night Walk Kenthurst 7.30pm-9.30pm www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Tracks-and-Trails.html 

17-Nov Gardening Success-Walk, Talk and Workshop Botanic Gdn Mount Tomah 10.30am-12.30pm www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au 

17-Nov Propogation Workshop Galston 10am-12pm (02) 9847 4856 (free to Hornsby Shire residents) 


18-Nov Jazz at The Pines Dural 12.30pm-4pm www.hhart.com.au 

23-Nov Jazz @ Wisemans Riverbend Restaurant Wisemans Ferry 12pm-3pm www.wisemans.com.au 

24-Nov Hawkesbury Harvest Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Castle Hill 8am-12pm www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au 

Markets 

25-Nov Tunes on the Terrace at Riverside Oaks Cattai 12pm start www.riversideoaks.com.au 

25-Nov Glenorie Growers Market Glenorie 8am-1pm www.glenoriegrowers.com.au 


26-Nov Madison’s Mountain Retreat alpaca shearing day Kurrajong Heights 7am-2pm www.madisonsretreat.com.au 

27-Nov Madison’s Mountain Retreat alpaca shearing day Kurrajong Heights 7am-2pm www.madisonsretreat.com.au 

Exhibitions at Hawkesbury Regional Museum, for most up to date information visit www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/ 

museumexhibitions 

8 Baker Street, Windsor 

Sisters who sewed a fine seam: The Misses Stewart 

sheds light on the lives and livelihood of two remarkable girls from Bilpin who created garments and accessories for sale in David Jones 

and Farmers Department Stores in Sydney 

River, Land, People 

Paints with a broad brush the themes and events that have made the Hawkesbury what it is today. 

Mighty Mushrooms 

Insights and fascinating facts about the world’s favourite fungi 

Exhibitions at Hawkesbury Regional Gallery, for most up to date information visit www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/ 

galleryexhibitions 

300 George Street, Deerubbin Centre, Windsor 

Northern Impressions - a celebration of Contemporary Printmaking 01 Sep -14 Oct 

Touring in conjunction with the Australia Council for the Arts and Northern Territory Government. 

Strong Women Strong Painting Strong Culture 01 Sep-14 Oct 

Celebrating the power and importance of contemporary women’s art making in desert Aboriginal communities 

Oculi: Terra Australis 19 Oct - 02 Dec 

Oculi offers a poetic photographic narrative of our time and our region, through ten distinctive styles and perspectives. 

Exhibitions at Sassafras Creek, for more information visit www.sassafrascreek.com.au 

Gardens of Stone’-works by Virginia Wheatley until 6 Sep 

Works inspired by a recent visit to Laos and Cambodia 

Landing’-works by Julie Hickson 08 Sep - 11 Oct 

Exhibtion of fine art stenciling 

Works by Pamela Griffith 20 Oct - 29 Nov 

Exhibtion of printmaking 


17

18 18 

Plush & Pampered 

Choosing your accommodation is as important as 

the journey itself. Experience brings you 

some unique options, so you may enjoy the 

local culture and hospitality. 

Stay for a night... Stay for a week... 

• alpacas, goats, chickens 

• self contained cottages 

• train carriages 

• log fire, heated spa, indoor pool 

• perfect for romantic weekends, 

family holidays or group retreats 

1880 Bells Line of Road, Kurrajong Heights 

(02) 4567 7398 

www.MadisonRetreat.com.au 

PRICE MORRIS COTTAGE 

37 Upper Macdonald Road 

St Albans NSW 2775 Australia 

(02) 4568-2121 

bookings@pricemorris.com.au 

COME, STAY AND ENJOY the unique part of Australian history 

~ Enjoy, Protect, Conserve & Appreciate your Heritage ~ 


Jerimuda 

Bed & Breakfast 

Kevin and Jenny O’Shea 

72 laws farm road 

lower portland nsw 2756 

tel 02 4579 1028 

fax 02 4579 1029 

mobile 0425 289 366/7 

jerimudabb@bigpond.com 

www.jerimuda.com.au 

Walk Back In Time - Price Morris Cottage 

On our arrival, owner Joyce Stepto, greeted us dressed in period 

costume carrying a tray with cold apple juice and warm plum 

pudding. Joyce told us her delightful story about life growing up in 

the valley and her dream to restore the cottage, notwithstanding 

the massive work that it entailed. She then gave us a guided tour 

through the cottage, which has been in her family for 167 years, 

despite the ravages of time, floods and drought. 

Price Morris was a farmer who took up the 50 acre grant of the 

property in 1837. From 1837-1967 the farm produced fruit 

and vegetables for the burgeoning Sydney markets, as well 

as pigs and calves for the meat market. The original cottage 

took 8 years to build and 2 years to restore having a vertical 

slab, wattle and daub walls, calico ceilings all under a shingle 

roof. It’s authentic restoration gives it a prominent place in 

Australia’s history within the Macdonald Valley and its community. 

The cottage is self-contained and has a long northern verandah 

overlooking the farm. Catching the early morning winter sunlight 

and cooling afternoon summer shade, allowing time to relax and let 

the mind wander. A breezeway separates the fully-functional kitchen 

from the sleeping quarters. Each room has a story to tell of the 

original old style construction through display ‘windows’ protected 

by glass, showing the construction methods of a bygone era. 

The cottage is open for short breaks, weekends, and mid-week 

packages.

Nana & Pa’s Country Retreat represents 

excellent value for money and is located 

in Kurrajong Heights/Bilpin NSW. 

Phone: (02) 4567 7166 

Mobile: 0414 298 945 

Email: j_bros@bigpond.net.au 

www.nanaandpascountryretreat.com.au 

Kurrajong Village 

Relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural bush surrounding 

as you share the experience with our native lyrebirds. 

Kurrajong, the Aboriginal name for ‘shade 

tree’, which grew in abundance in the town, 

was settled around 1790. In earlier times the 

seeds of the trees were roasted as a coffee 

substitute. 

Prior to 1823, attempts to cross the Blue 

Mountains had been unsuccessful until 

Archibald Bell followed some Aboriginal 

women who had been kidnapped by the 

Springwood tribe. 

Kurrajong Trails & Cottages 

Spring is in the air, time to pack the kids, push bikes + the 

dog & head for the hills. 

Kurrajong Trails, only 1.5 to 2 hours drive from our 

Northern Beaches home seems a world away—no shops, 

no neighbours, no noise, only the sounds of birds— 

until we arrive & our children clamour onto the jumbo 

trampoline & commence their raucous play. 

The usual suspects will join us for a weekend of games, 

bushwalking, canoeing & barbequing followed by relaxing 

evenings in the shed enjoying a moderate consumption 

of alcohol, once our exhausted offspring are sleeping 

peacefully in the cottages. Don’t forget the views, just 

spectacular. Our group of 24 books the place out, giving 

us a safe environment & sole use of all facilities. 

The huge entertainment shed has a kitchen, barbeque & 

eating areas inside or out, making communal meals easy. 

There is a great fireplace if we want to use it, plus ready 

chopped wood. 

The relaxed arrival & departure times give us 2 full days 

to enjoy our bush escape. 

Experience your own space at Nana & Pa's country retreat. 

Victoria and Mat from Northern Beaches, Sydney 

Wheeny Creek runs through Kurrajong area to 

the Colo River. 

“The area was renowned for 

its orchards and a steam rail 

link was opened in 1926.” 

This helped farmers to get their produce to 

the Sydney region. 

Views from Kurrajong Village 

The views from Kurrajong Village are 

spectacular, where you can see the Sydney 

basin from Penrith to the city, the Harbour 

Bridge from Kurrajong Heights, and from 

Experience your own space at Nana & Pa's country retreat. 

Relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural bush surrounding 

as you share the experience with our native lyrebirds. 

Bilpin you can see the orchards, the beautiful 

rolling green hills intermingled with the rugged 

bush covered rocks and views of the Grose 

Valley. 

Enjoy a visit to Kurrajong village with its 

country hospitality, unique call of the bellbirds 

and the smell of clean refreshing air and 

experience the exhilarating scenery. 

History lovers will appreciate the old buildings 

and churches, and collectors will be lost in the 

antique shops. The call to Kurrajong is simply 

irresistible. 

KURRAJONG TRAILS 

& COTTAGES 

Kurrajong Trails and Cottages is set on 100 acres in the rugged 

Hawkesbury sandstone ridges in the Kurrajong area. The main house 

and cottages overlook Wheeny Creek, which stretches from Kurrajong 

Heights to the Colo River, winding its way through some majestic 

wetlands. 

The property is set inside the Wollemi National Park, the home of the 

ancient Wollemi Pine, whose whereabouts are secret. Located 23 

kilometres northeast of Windsor and approximately 1.5 hours from the 

centre of the city. 

Kirkwood rd, off Blaxlands Ridge rd, Blaxlands Ridge, 

NSW 2756, Australia 

Email: kurra@zipworld.com.au | Phone: 4576 1417 

www.kurratrails.com 


19

20 

Located in the heart of Wisemans Ferry, Del 

Rio Resort offers a wide range of Hawkesbury 

accommodation options for families 

and couples. Our beautiful landscaped 

surroundings offer our guests an ideal 

location with plenty of activities for the kids 

while the mum’s and dad’s can relax. 

Situated on the banks of the Hawkesbury 

River with well appointed, self contained 

bungalows and lodges, or shady camping 

areas for the budget conscious family. Del 

Rio Resort has conference facilities that let 

you get down to some serious business while 

enjoying a relaxed, resort atmosphere. 

“...ideal location with plenty 

of activities for kids while the 

mum’s & dad’s can relax...” 

Put your feet up as you dangle a line. Play a 

little tennis or enjoy a few hours on our golf 

course. The more energetic may prefer to 

Del Rio Riverside Resort is located in the heart of 

Wisemans Ferry, our beautiful landscaped surroundings 

offer our guests an ideal location and you’ll find everything 

you’ve been looking for: 


explore the bush tracks, either on foot or on 

a bicycle. 

For waterskiers, with the hawkesbury the 

home of the famous Bridge to Bridge Classic 

at their feet, a Ski Lodge with its own internal 

launching ramp and accommodation for 

up to 35 people. It’s Paradise! Del Rio is a 

landscaped playground in the heart of a 

natural wonderland. No matter what your age 

there’s no reason to enjoy it all! 

MID WEEK DEAL 

STAY 2 NIGHTS AND RECEIVE THE 

3RD NIGHT FREE IN ANY STYLE 

ACCOMMODATION OR CAMPING SITE. 

AVAILABLE MONDAY TO THURSDAY NIGHTS ONLY. 

OFFER ENDS DECEMBER 20, 2012. 

EXCLUDES PEAK PERIODS. 

CONDITIONS APPLY.

Just a great place 

to get away for a while...... 

ABN 18 194 057 869 

2720 River Road, Wisemans Ferry NSW 2775 

Phone: 02 4566 4280 Fax: 02 4566 4270 

Email: carinyaski@yahoo.com 

Web: www.carinyaski.com.au 

Last Sunday my partner & I decided to 

take a trip down memory lane. We drove 

to Carinya Ski Ranch on the banks of the 

Hawkesbury River. 

We thought that we would grab a bit to eat 

at the old kiosk that we used to frequent 

quite often. To our surprise, the old kiosk 

has been renovated & it is now a B.Y.O. 

Alfresco Seafood Café. The menu had a 

variety of choices. We shared a bucket of 

prawns – YES, A BUCKET – with homemade 

Start your drive from Wisemans Ferry Park on 

the Hawkesbury River. Cross on the vehicular 

ferry and turn west (left) onto Settlers Road 

and head to St Albans. This road is unsealed 

for most of the way to and from St Albans but 

is usually in good condition. 

Break your journey and stop at the gate to the 

Convict Heritage Trail (approx 1km from the 

ferry crossing).You can walk up Devines Hill and 

depending on your fitness and available time, 

you can make this walk as long or as short as 

you like and still see the convict’s handiwork in 

the retaining walls and excavations. 

Continue westward up the Macdonald 

Valley towards St Albans and you will note 

an old cemetery adjacent to the road on 

the left side as you near St Albans.This is 

a pioneer cemetery and the scripts on 

the headstones are worth viewing as this 

was one of the earliest settled areas in 

colonial times. Continue to St Albans for 

lunch or coffee. At St Albans, go over the 

Macdonald River, turn south (left) onto St 

Albans Road and follow the road along the 

other side of the Macdonald Valley. 

dipping sauces and sour dough bread, 

followed by the freshest flathead fillets 

with delicious salad & chips & a Knife & 

Fork Steak Sandwich (you need a knife & 

fork…it’s huge). Coffee & Key Lime pie for 

dessert were a must. 

“The views are spectacular as 

you dine on the banks of the 

Hawkesbury River.” 

Cross over the Hawkesbury River on the 

Webbs Creek Ferry to Wisemans Ferry, turn 

south (right) and head down River Road. The 

road is very scenic but make sure you watch 

the corners as this partly unsealed road follows 

the winding river. At Lower Portland turn right 

and take the ferry across the Hawkesbury River 

again. Turn south (left) into West Portland Road 

and follow it until you reach a ‘T’ intersection 

onto Sackville Road. Turn south (right) onto 

Sackville Road, follow for approx 3km then turn 

east (left) onto Tizzana Road. After about 1km, 

turn right into Coromandel Road. Follow this for 

a few hundred metres and Ebenezer Church 

is on your right at a turn in the road. Ebenezer 

Church is the oldest church in Australia and is 

surrounded by a pioneer cemetery with graves 

dating back to the early 1800s. Plus, there is a 

schoolmaster’s house which is now a museum. 

Devonshire tea can be enjoyed at picnic tables 

under the shady trees. 

Retrace your steps back to Tizzana Road and 

turn right. Continue for approximately 5.8km 

until you see Tizzana Winery on your left. It 

is built of local sandstone and is the original 

winery building built in 1887. The winery is 

Water sports kept us entertained and the 

pristine picnic grounds and BBQ areas 

were used by visiting families & friends. 

There are also three deluxe cabins with 

river views, unpowered camping sites and 

a boat ramp. The bank is lined with leafy 

trees for shade for those who just like to lie 

down and relax. 

Make sure you put this little piece of 

paradise on your list of places to visit. 

FOUR FERRIES DRIVE 

Wisemans to Windsor 

Wander through the Hawkesbury Region crossing 

four car ferries along the Hawkesbury River. 

open for tastings and has a very attractive 

ambiance which can only be achieved with 

time. Continue along Tizzana Road and turn 

right onto Sackville Road to traverse the 

Hawkesbury River on the Sackville Ferry 

and continue along Sackville Road; note the 

beautiful juxtaposition of the orange orchard 

and the sandstone cliffs on your left. When you 

reach River Road, keep on Sackville Road and 

turn south (right) when you reach Wisemans 

Ferry Road. This road leads to Cattai National 

Park which has picnic facilities and if you have 

the kids on board there are large grassy fields 

for them to have a game of cricket or football. 

Cattai National Park is the remains of 

Thomas Arndell’s Estate. This 1821 Georgian 

home still stands in the park and the remains 

of his mill and granary are Australia’s oldest 

industrial archaeological site. Return to 

Wisemans Ferry Road and turn south (right) 

travelling through Pitt Town, a Macquarie 

Town. It’s worth taking the time to stroll the 

quiet streets and soak up the history. Continue 

on to Windsor Road turning right across the 

wetlands into Windsor township. 


21

22 

Cornwallis House 

Luxury Holiday Retreat 

“our little secret” 

Hidden among the orange groves on 

the banks of the Hawkesbury River 

lies Cornwallis House, the ideal luxury 

retreat for those looking to escape. 

It is the perfect place for your next get together with friends or 

family, milestone celebration, or girls weekend away and is a great 

place to experience all that the Hawkesbury has to offer. 

• Small Group friendly • 4 minute drive to Windsor 

• Ideal for small private & • 4 bedroom / 4 bathroom 

business functions 

p: Angelo or Alannah on 4577 6535 or after hours on 0423 623 916 

e: enquiries@cornwallishouse.com.au www.cornwalllishouse.com.au 

Our producers will delight your 

tastebuds with samples of 

cheeses, yoghurts, hand-made 

chocolates, spices, pickles, 

chutneys, jams and more. 

4th Sunday of 

Every Month 

(Except Dec/Jan) 

Glenorie Village 

Follow Signs 

8am to 2pm 

Enquiries 

Vicki 0423 727 826 

glenoriegrowers@gmail.com 

www.glenoriegrowers.com.au 


60th Birthday 

Celebrations 

 

RATING: 100% 

STAY IN JULY 2012 

REVIEW BY HELEN 

”Cornwallis House certainly ticks all of the boxes! We were 

looking for somewhere that was not too far out of the way 

but felt somewhat secluded to celebrate my husbands 60th 

birthday, so that it could be a holiday and not just a venue. What 

a surprise to find that the house exceeded our expectations. 

Each room is generous in size and decor and the underfloor 

heating in the bathrooms was an extravagance we appreciated 

in the middle of winter. 

We had lunch for 24 seated comfortably on the roomy verandah 

that wraps around the house and looks out on amazing views of 

the river and orchards. With all of the tables, chairs, glassware, 

crockery, cutlery, etc., provided we had no last minute panic 

and the initial concern that I may have bitten off more than I 

could chew, being away from my own kitchen, was appeased 

as soon as I saw the kitchen. Our guests were gobsmacked 

and couldn’t believe I had found the house just by a search on 

Stayz. Fresh orange juice, bike rides along the riverfront and a 

jacuzzi with a view was the perfect tonic.” 

Foodies 

Paradise 

I first heard about Glenorie Growers Market from a 

friend who lives in the area and I was curious to find 

out what it was all about. I first visited about 12 months 

ago and was surprised to find such an eclectic mix of 

stall holders offering up different and unique products and 

food that I hadn’t really seen before at other markets. Although 

some of the stall holders come from other regional areas, the market is 

always keen to welcome local growers and producers. 

I was so surprised to find fabulous Black Angus beef which is produced 

right next to Riverside Oaks Golf Resort at Cattai! The people who 

produce it are so passionate about their meat and, when available, they 

also bring their own lamb and pork. Local organic garlic, also from 

Cattai, makes an appearance when in season. 

There are beautifiul roses and bromeliads grown in Glenorie, locally 

produced wine from Ebenezer, hand-made chocolates from Grose Vale 

and soy candles in a wide range of fragrances from Annangrove are 

some other local products. Whatever food experience you are after, 

you’ll be sure to find it here. When my appetite calls, I either have a 

gourmet roll from Mark or some Chinese dumplings from Andy, washed 

down with some freshly squeezed fruit juice. 

This is the friendliest market I have ever visited, and my calendar marks 

the 4th Sunday of each month (exc Dec and Jan) with ‘Glenorie Market 

Day’. - R. Di Stefano from Rooty Hill

All Weather Driving 

Range Open Now! 

Riverside Oaks Golf Resort opened their new undercover, 20 bay driving 

range with an official opening day on Saturday 21st July. Callaway 

were on hand for guests to sample their latest equipment and free 

golf lessons conducted by Riverside Oaks Head PGA golf professional. 

Complimentary food and drink were also supplied. Everyone in 

attendance had a great experience and the new driving range has 

been warmly received by all. The new driving range is open to the 

public 7 days a week. Buckets of balls starting from $6 and equipment 

can be provided if needed. 

Private golf lessons and clinics are available from our PGA Golf 

Professionals. The Driving range can also be arranged and used for 

special events and functions such as cocktail parties, group functions, 

corporate events, etc. 

Tantalise Your Tastebuds 

Enjoy the Alfresco dining with panoramic views overlooking the 

championship course, or relax in the cosy Brasserie Restaurant 

open for lunch 7 days a week. 

Phone: (02) 4560 3200 

Corner Argyle and Mileham Streets South Windsor 02 4587 6900 

Escape to Riverside Oaks Golf Resort - Open to the public 

Public Golf At It’s Finest 

With full clubhouse facilities and a new driving range open to the 

public, Riverside Oaks Golf Resort is the perfect venue for a day 

trip or a short getaway. 

Enjoy Tunes on the Terrace the last sunday of each month 

Unwind relax with live music & chef’s special BBQ menu. An afternoon of great food, good music & stunning scenery. 


23

24 

Markets at the Garden 

A new exciting craft, fresh 

produce and community market has begun at Regal 

Gardens in Annangrove. So far we have had three successful markets 

report organizers Brad & Leonie Henderson, with many varied stalls 

including the usual array of handmade crafts, food stalls, kids’ activities 

and fresh produce. In addition market-goers are entertained by local 

talent and the acclaimed Youth Jazz Band while they wander through the 

picturesque surroundings that is Regal Garden. 

Markets at the Garden are held the second Saturday of every month from 

8am till 3pm. A special twilight market is also planned for 8th December 

(5pm-9pm). The markets are a fabulous addition to the area local Lyn 

Panich commented. “It is a great opportunity for local artisans to 

showcase their work and a great day out for the whole family.” 

For contact details call Brad: 0423822606 or Leonie: 0414524773 

Where? 

Regal Gardens 

249 Annangrove Rd, 

Annangrove, NSW 2156 

When? 

2nd Saturday 

Of Every Month. 

8:00am - 3:00pm 

Contact 

Call to Enquire 

Brad - 0423 822 606 

Leonie - 0414 524 773 

Specialising in Handicrafts & Fresh Produce. 

Jewellery 

Community Stalls 

Handmade Cards 

Handicrafts 

Babyware 


Papercraft 

Vegetables 

Woodcraft 

Fresh Fruit 

Face Painting 

My experience at Markets at the Garden - Susan Bradley 

What fantastic markets. I had such a great time walking around 

the lovely gardens looking at all the handmade arts, crafts and 

produce stalls. So much to look at and I got some lovely gifts 

and fantastic bargains. The food stalls sold lovely fresh meals 

and other fresh produce while the live music made it very easy to 

stay and enjoy the atmosphere. I have been a few times and each 

time there has been new stalls to investigate and performers to 

listen to. A really good day out for the whole family. 

Can you help us? 

We would love to hear your feedback from our first Experience 

magazine. 

What types of experiences would you like to read about? 

If you have a great experience at a local activity, restaurant, 

accommodation stay, or other event, please write to us and let 

us know, so others can enjoy the same wonderful experience. 

Please either email vicki@hhartexperience.com.au or go to our 

website www.hhart.com.au, click the contact us in the top right 

and fill out the enquiry form. You can also call Vicki on 0423 727 

826 or the Hhart office@ on 9656 1597. 

Ceramics 

Soaps & Candles 

Children’s Clothing 

Ladies Apparel 

Glassware 

Honey 

Food Stalls 

Kids Activities 

Jams & Chutney 

Live Music

26 

a wildlife encounter 

like no other 

Open daily 9am-5pm 

(closed Christmas Day) 

217 Kildare Road, Doonside, 

Sydney NSW 2767 

FERNDALE COUNTRY RETREAT 

A Natural Place to Meet 

Ferndale is located 1.5 hour 

from Sydney CBD, on the 

magnificent Hawkesbury River. 

“mid-week specials” 

for interest groups such 

as crafts and hobbies, 

business meetings,etc. 

• 20 one or two bedroom 

log cabins with stunning 

river views or bushviews 

• Tennis court, games room 

and swimming pool on site 

• Tariffs start at $110 

per couple per night 

weekdays, $150 per 

couple per night weekend, 

including breakfast 

Our conference room is purpose built in a superb location 

overlooking the Hawkesbury River. 

Kee & Chris Hasemore 

991 River Rd, Lower Portland, 

NSW 2756 

Cuddle up to a Koala 

for FREE at anytime 

of day 

Enjoy a face to 

face encounter 

with Crocodiles, 

Wombats, 

Tasmanian Devils... 

Just 20 minutes 

from the Heart of 

the Hawkesbury 

0245755223 

www.fernconf.com.au 

ferndale@bigpond.com 


On Monday 20th August 2012, my family went to Featherdale 

Wildlife Park. It was a sunny day and we were all looking forward 

to seeing lots of animals. At the entry we were given Wildlife 

Passports and you had to find the stamping stations to get the 

stamps in your passport. We liked getting all the stamps. 

First we saw the kangaroos. You could buy an ice-cream 

c o n e for $1 with grassy food in 

it that the kangaroos liked 

to eat, but they especially 

liked eating the cone as 

well. They were very 

sleepy and happy to be 

patted. Their fur was soft 

and warm. 

The Farmyard was full of 

animals that you could 

pat and hold. We held a 

chicken, it was fun. There was a pesky goat 

who tried to eat mummy’s jacket, and even tried to eat mummy’s 

hair. Then he ate someone’s passport from under their pram. He 

was very cheeky. 

Then we found the penguins. One was hiding in his hideout spying 

on us. And we loved how scary the huge crocodile was. We 

saw a snake who was shedding his skin, and we saw a beautiful 

peacock with blue and green 

feathers. 

We noticed that there were 

red triangles on some of the 

exhibits that said some of the 

animals were endangered 

like the quokka, yellowfooted 

kangaroo, and the 

rock wallaby. The sign said 

some of the reasons were 

competition for food, lack of 

shelter, and predation. 

We think it’s great that places like Featherdale Wildlife 

Park can keep some species safe from becoming extinct. We 

had so much fun at Featherdale Wildlife Park and would love to 

do it all again. 

Ethan 10, Kyall 9, and Arryn 6 

“Congratulations to Kee & Chris for hosting 

our recent workshop. 2012 will be our 

third year at Ferndale Country Retreat. The 

upgraded conference room with new carpet 

and lighting was excellent. The food was 

plentiful and excellent, and the company 

was, as usual, wonderful.”

Fly like never before... 

THINK flying and you probably think speed 

and noise. 

The passenger jet, the little Cessna and the 

thundering helicopter are all about the rumble 

and the racket. 

In contrast, the historic pastime of hot air 

ballooning is all about grace and tranquillity. 

Takeoff is so gentle that many a passenger 

has been caught mid-question: ``When are we 

going to take...?’’ 

At this point Cloud 9 Balloons chief pilot John 

Allen will usually point to the ground a few 

dozen metres below. 

You are already flying. Balloons become the 

breeze so if there is a south-westerly blowing, 

you will travel along with it. 

The pilot can adjust the altitude by adding or 

releasing hot air. Sometimes a new height can 

bring a new direction. Sometimes, and this is the 

delightfully unpredictable aspect of the pastime, 

that direction can be the complete opposite. 

But we should start at the beginning. 

Preparation will have you out of bed before 

sparrows are stirring. There’s usually a 

The Bank Bazaar offers an amazing range of 

quality antiques, homewares, jewellery, fashion 

accessories, books and curios in a luxurious and 

welcoming atmosphere. Barista made coffee, 

delicious cakes, gourmet pies and other goodies 

are available for your pleasure either inside or 

outside in the fantastic secluded garden. 

Housed in the beautifully restored historic former 

Commercial Banking Company building in 

Richmond NSW only around an hour’s drive from 

Sydney’s CBD. Vintage lead crystal, glassware, 

furniture, artworks, jewellery, fashion accessories, 

fine china, soft furnishings, books, unusual curios 

and much more. 

Come in for a browse and stay for a coffee 

The Bank Bazaar 

290 Windsor Street Richmond NSW 

Ph: 02 4588 6951 

www.bankbazaar.com.au 

or see us on Facebook 

telephone check with the pilot to make sure it 

is not too windy and then the fun starts. 

The rendezvous for Cloud 9’s Hawkesbury 

flights is at the luxurious Sebel Resort & Spa 

in Windsor an hour before sunrise. 

Cloud 9’s expert balloonistas will then brief 

you and transport you to the launch site. If 

you are a hands-on type of person you can 

help prepare the basket and envelope for the 

flight. You are also welcome to stand back and 

take a few pictures, either way, you will know 

a lot more about hot-air balloon preparation at 

the end of the morning. 

Before the propane burners pump superheated 

air into the envelope, passengers can 

hold the edges to assist the inflation. When 

it’s nearly full, one of tourism’s great photo 

opportunities occurs. 

Passengers can stand inside the envelope 

amid gently filtered light and a rainbow 

backdrop. 

After takeoff, the magnificent Hawkesbury 

Valley opens up beneath you. On either side of 

the mighty river is a patchwork quilt of trees 

and colourful farmland. 

“...Barista coffee with 

delicious cakes and gourmet 

pies along with many other 

tasty goodies are available 

for your pleasure...” 

This beautiful old bank has been restored beyond 

its former beauty. An elegant cafe sits within the 

spectacular antiques shop. Amidst the chaise 

lounges, candelabras and jewellery and artworks 

you can enjoy home-made cakes, gourmet pies 

and smooth coffee. 

Opening Hours: 

Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm 

Saturday 9am – 4pm 

Sunday Closed 

The sensation of flying is different to every 

other form of aviation, because you ARE 

the breeze, there is no wind in your face. It’s 

completely still as Mother Earth rotates slowly 

beneath you. 

Compared to the gentle takeoff, landing can 

come with a bump. Because wind is a little 

unpredictable, you might land on a football 

field or a paddock or a park. Your preparation 

briefing will cover the correct position to take 

and your pilot is right there with you. 

What follows landing is one of the great 

traditions of world tourism. People emerging 

from a basket on the earliest balloon flights 

in France 230 years ago were mistaken for 

aliens and faced ``pitchfork welcomes’’ from 

frightened peasants. 

To prove they were ``of the Earth’’ balloonists 

started bringing bottles of champagne to 

allay the peasants’ fears. 

The tradition survives as a way of celebrating 

a sublime morning of wonderful activity over a 

superb region of New South Wales. 

Happy flying! 


27

28 

Calling all budding Grey Nomads! 

Wanderest Travellers Park is located opposite and hospitality of a regional town. 

that they have invited friends and family to lunch 

the Richmond Club. The continued growth of 

and popularity of Wanderest is testament to the 

positive impact it is having in the community. 

Each visitor that the park accommodates 

has an impact on local businesses, as it is 

estimated that $300 is spent locally per guest. 

here on a number of occasions. 

Wanderest has proved to be quite an innovative 

product in the tourism industry, evidenced by its 

Driven by a desire to showcase the beautiful Situated in the heart of Richmond, it is the recent success as finalist in the 2012 Greater 

Hawkesbury region to the passing traveller, perfect gateway to the services and attractions Sydney Tourism Awards and ClubsNSW Awards 

Wanderest allows visitors to relax, recharge that the Hawkesbury has to offer. 

for Excellence. There are currently plans to 

and see what the district has to offer. As a 

free stay park, it has helped the Hawkesbury 

region to embrace local tourism and to work 

with businesses in the community to embrace 

travellers and connect to our region. And as 

returning guests Lee Bradbury and David Crane 

will tell you, they have found a lot to like about 

Richmond and the Hawkesbury. 

“Richmond is a great getaway from the hustle 

and bustle of Sydney life,” Lee said. “We enjoy 

very much what it has to offer, especially that 

we can slow down and have all the facilities 

we need.” Perfectly positioned opposite the 

Richmond Club and with a picturesque outlook 

of the lowlands, Wanderest promises an 

inexpensive holiday with all the conveniences 

For those visiting the region for the first time, 

the club’s team of customer service staff are 

able to guide and help you plan your itinerary 

during your stay. 

This month is also the grand opening of 

Amber Style and Beauty, which is open to club 

members and their guests, as well as visitors 

staying at Wanderest. 

David and Lee were the first customers to try 

the salon. “Amber is a great idea for members,” 

David said. 

“The staff were great and the special deals for 

club members are wonderful. We will definitely 

use them again and again.” Both commended 

the staff and atmosphere of the club, saying 

expand the current site in the near future as well 

as franchise the idea to other clubs, something 

that David and Lee hoped would eventuate 

soon. 

“Richmond Club have set the bar high,” they 

said. “It would be a wonderful idea in another 

part of Sydney, but the standard would have to 

be the same to be successful.” 

Whether you are a backpacker, young family, 

grey nomad or anything in between, come and 

experience the hospitality of the Hawkesbury 

and Wanderest. The Wanderest package only 

requires you to become a member of Richmond 

Club, and includes day planners, coupons, 

complimentary offers and a regional map 

complete with GPS coordinates. 

* 

Photograph monica leach © HHT 


family fun 

ROUSE HILL HOUSE & FARM 

www.hht.net.au 

free 

child entry 

with each paying adult 

when you present 

this ad* 

Join us at the new Visitor Centre at 

Rouse Hill House & Farm and immerse 

yourself in the past. Glimpse what life 

was like for early settlers in the district. 

rouse hill house & farm 

356 Annangrove Road, Rouse Hill 

Open Sat–Sun, 10.30am–3.30pm 

Closed Christmas Day 

Gen $8 | Concession $4 | Family $17 

By guided tour on the hour 

Bookings required 

t 02 9627 6777 

SPeciAl eVentS 

rousabout: a family tour (45 mins) 

Families meander across the 

paddocks to feed the chooks. 

Every weekend 11am & 1pm 

Daily during school holidays 

Old schoolhouse tours (45 mins) 

Go back in time and explore the old 

schoolhouse, built 1888, and hear 

intriguing stories of the past. 

*SpECIAL OFFER valid until Dec 2012 

Not valid for groups, special events 

or with any other offer.

Relax and Unwind 

We started coming here about 4 years ago with a group of friends who 

are all keen golfers. Going back to that first time, as we drove through 

the last few bends in the road and got our first glimpses of the river 

sparkling in the sunlight, the colours of the cliffs, the trees, we knew we 

were somewhere magical! 

We love the serenity of the place. It’s just so restful. The fact that you 

are just over an hour from the middle of the city, yet you feel like you’re 

in a different world. And, at the end of a sunny day, the sunset on the 

cliffs is just beautiful. The colour keeps changing into every shade of 

gold and brown. 

We take the golfers’ package which includes dinner and unlimited golf, 

with an electric cart. And for just a little extra, we can get a lovely suite 

with a separate bedroom. We usually have all our meals in the dining 

room, but you can have breakfast delivered to your room if you prefer. 

The standard of the food has always been consistently high, really lovely. 

And the staff are always so friendly, and go out of their way to make your 

stay enjoyable. A few years ago, the guys went off to explore The Great 

North Road, and the staff arranged for massages and aromatherapy for 

the ladies. There’s also a terrific games room for the guests to enjoy. 

We’ve seen many of our friends arrive here so stressed, then after no 

time at all, you see them starting to relax and unwind. That’s just what 

The Retreat does. - James & Carmel Cranney 

2 Day Itinery 

Not sure where to go? Try this 2 day itinery 

10am Start in Hills, travelling along Old Northern Road, visit the 

nurseries and cafes. 

12pm Head down to Wisemans Ferry to enjoy a picnic lunch by the 

Hawkesbury River in Wisemans Ferry Park or stay in town to enjoy a 

hearty meal at one of the eateries. 

1:30pm Leave your car at Wisemans Ferry Park, walk onto the 

Wisemans river ferry and catch it across to the other side of the 

Hawkesbury River to explore a small portion of the Great North Road 

also known as the Convict Trail. 

2:30pm Catch the river ferry back over, jump back in your car and 

take the scenic, winding drive down River Road to Windsor. 

4:30pm Arrive at Windsor and explore this historic town. 

7pm Enjoy a dining experience in Windsor or Richmond. 

9pm Stay overnight in Windsor. 

DAY 2 

4am For those adventure seekers why not see the Hawkesbury 

from a different angle with a hot air balloon flight? 

7:30am Enjoy a long, leisurely, delicious country style breakfast at 

your accommodation. 

10am Head up the Blue Mountains along Bells Line of Road through 

to Kurrajong Village, take your time exploring the village and stop off 

for a scrumptious lunch in one of the cafes. 

1:30pm Enjoy your scenic drive while heading up to Mount Tomah to 

explore the gardens. Along the way discover the road side stops and 

farms where you can visit to pick your own fruit. 

4:30pm As you make your way back down Bells Line of Road stop off 

at the lookout to grab some great photos of the Sydney Basin. 

Experience Wisemans Ferry 

Australis 

R E T R E A T A T W I S E M A N S 

Just an hour from Sydney on the banks of 

the Hawkesbury River, Australis Retreat at 

Wisemans is your perfect country escape. 

Dine on the finest local produce, enjoy our 

extensive leisure facilities and explore the 

local National Parks and historic sights. 

Restaurant • Golf Course • Tennis Courts 

Games Room • Massage & Beauty Salon 

Swimming Pool and more! 

5564 Old Northern Road, 

Wisemans Ferry, NSW 

P: (02) 45 66 44 22 F: (02) 45 66 46 13 

E: retreat@wisemans.com.au 

www.wisemans.com.au 

Based on twin share, conditions apply 

Stay at the award-winning 

Australis Retreat at Wisemans 

From 

only 

* $ per 75 

person 

including 

breakfast 

54 spacious and 

comfortable rooms 

ARCADIAN ARTISTS 

EXHIBITION & ART TRAIL 

SATURDAY 10TH - SUNDAY 11TH NOV 

9AM - 5PM 

A MAGNIFICENT COUNTRY DRIVE LINKS EIGHT 

STUDIOS. OVER 50 ARTISTS AND ARTISANS 

ARE EXHIBITING THEIR WORKS FOR SALE. 

DRIVE INTO GALSTON WHERE THE ARCADIAN 

ARTISTS INFORMATION STAND WILL BE 

LOCATED OUTSIDE BENDIGO BANK. 

VIEW OUR WEBSITE FOR MAP & INFORMATION 

www.arcadianartists.com.au 

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY 

BENDIGO BANK GALSTON 


29

30 

business 

directory 

Company Name Website 

Accommodation Dining Weding Reception Venue Caters for conferences 

Hotels/Motels/Apartments/Villas/Lodges 

Australis Retreat at Wisemans www.wisemans.com.au x x x 

Berowra Waters Penthouse www.berowrawaterspenthouse.com.au x x 

Cornwallis House www.cornwallishouse.com.au 

Crowne Plaza Norwest www.crowneplazanorwest.com.au x x x 

Ferndale Recreation www.ferndalerec.com.au x x 

Hawkesbury Race Club Motel www.hrcmotel.com.au x 

Hotel Ibis Thornleigh www.ibishotel.com/gb/hotel-3238-ibis-sydney-thornleigh/index.shtml x 

Juniors on Hawkesbury www.juniorsonhawkesbury.com.au x x 

Quest Serviced Apartments Castle Hill www.questcastlehill.com.au 

The Sebel Resort and Spa Hawkesbury Valley www.sebelhawkesbury.com.au x x x 

Bed & Breakfast 

Hawkesbury Two Rivers Retreat www.tworiversretreat.com.au 

Jerimuda Bed & Breakfast www.jerimuda.com.au 

Keribee At Kurmond B&B www.kurmondbedandbreakfast.com 

Kurrajong Trails and Cottages www.kurratrails.com x 

Madisons Mountain Retreat www.madisonsretreat.com.au x 

Nana & Pa’s Country Retreat www.nanaandpascountryretreat.com.au 

Price Morris Cottage www.pricemorris.com.au 

The Court House & Homestead B&B www.courthousestalbans.com.au 

Tizzana Winery B&B www.tizzana.com.au x x 

Camping/Caravannin/Cabins 

Carinya Ski Ranch www.carinyaski.com.au x 

Del Rio Riverside Resort www.delrioresort.com.au x x x 

Hawkesbury Riverside Tourist Park www.hawkesburycaravanpark.com.au 

Wanderest Travellers Park www.wanderest.com.au 

Houseboats 

Able Hawkesbury House Boats www.hawkesburyhouseboats.com.au 

Paradise Afloat House boats www.paradiseafloat.com 

Attractions/Shopping/Wellness Dining Weding Reception Venue Caters for conferences 

Adventure Forests trading as Go Ape www.adventure-forest.com.au 

Australiana Pioneer Village www.theaustralianapioneervillage.com.au 

Balanced Essentials www.aroma.com.au 

Berowra Waters Marina www.berowrawatersmarina.com.au x x 

Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au x 

Cloud 9 Balloon Flights www.cloud9balloons.com.au 

Dural Musical Society Inc. www.duralmusicalsociety.org 

Ebenezer Church www.ebenezerchurch.org.au x 

Featherdale Wildlife Park www.featherdale.com.au 

Ferry Artists www.ferryartists.org 

Full Moon Wellness Centre www.fullmoonwellnesscentre.com.au 

Glenorie Growers Markets www.glenoriegrowers.com.au 

Golden Ridge Animal Farm www.goldenridgeanimalfarm.com.au 

Hawkesbury Harvest Farmers & Fine Food Markets www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au 

Hawkesbury Race Club www.hawkesburyraceclub.com.au x x x 

Hawkesbury Regional Gallery www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/services 

Hawkesbury Regional Museum www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/services 

Lynwood Country Club www.lynwoodcc.com.au x x x 

Riverside Oaks Golf Resort www.riversideoaks.com.au x x x 

Rouse Hill House & Farm www.hht.net.au/museums/rouse_hill_house_and_farm 

Scheyville National Park (NPWS) www.environment.nsw.gov.au 

Tobruk Australian Merino Sheep Station www.tobruksheepstation.com.au x x x 

Villa Thalgo Day Spa www.villathalgo.com.au 

Vision Valley Conference and Recreation Centre www.wesleymission.org.au/centres/visionvalley/ x 

Entertainment Venues 

Castle Hill RSL Club www.castlehillrsl.com.au x x x 

Richmond Club www.richmondclub.com.au x x x 

The Australian Hotel & Brewery www.australianhotelandbrewery.com.au x 

Dining 

Clydesdales Horsedrawn Restaurant www.clydesdalesrestaurant.com.au x 

Hawkesbury Paddlewheeler www.paddlewheeler.com.au x x 

Kashi Indian Restaurant www.kashiir.com x x 

Macquarie Princess Cruises www.macquarieprincesscruises.com.au x x 

Meze Me Café www.hhart.net.au/local-directory/attractions/meze-me-cafe-9159561.aspx x x 

Sassafras Creek Food and Design www.sassafrascreek.com.au x x 

Tours, Transfers & Hire Dining Weding Reception Venue Caters for conferences 

Aquallity Cruises www.aqualitycruises.com x 

Blue Thunder Down Under www.bluethunderdownunder.com.au 

Boab Boat Hire www.boabboathire.com.au 

Boronia Tours www.boroniatours.com 

Craigs Mini Buses www.craigsminibuses.com.au 

Good Az Gold Tours and Transfers www.goodazgoldtours.com.au 

Hawkesbury Valley Heritage Tours www.hawkesburytours.com.au 

Maxi the water Taxi www.berowrawaterstaxi.com.au 

Relaxation Boat Hire www.relaxationboathire.com.au 

Wedding Venues 

Cropley House www.cropleyhouse.com.au x 

Business Services & Other 

Adelphi Deisgn & Print www.adelphi.net.au 

Bright Blue Marketing www.brightbluemarketing.com.au 

Fitzgerald Printing www.fitzgroup.com.au 

Stralia web www.straliaweb.com.au 

Tourism Business Solutions www.tourismbusinesssolutions.com.au 

Tafe NSW WSI www.wsi.tafensw.edu.au 

UWS Venues www.uws.edu.au/venues/uws_venues/hawkesbury x x 

Windsor Business Group 

Councils (use their websites to find parks,reserves and community facilities) 

Hawkesbury City Council www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au 

Hornsby Shire Council www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au 

The Hills Shire Council www.thehills.nsw.gov.au 

Publications 

Galston & Glenorie Community News & The Hills Rural News sites.google.com/site/galstoncommunitynews/ 

Hills Shire Times hills-shire-times.whereilive.com.au 

Rouse Hill Times rouse-hill-times.whereilive.com.au 

The Bush Telegraph Weekly www.thebushtele.com.au 

The Hawkesbury Guide www.dine.net.au 

Visitor Information Centres 

Dural Visitor Information Centre, Roughley House &The Pines www.hhart.com.au 

Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre www.hawkesburytourism.com.au 

Rouse Hill Visitor Information Centre, Mungerie House www.hhart.com.au 


Richmond 

cLUB 

a place for you... 

6 East Market Street Richmond NSW 2753 

ph (02) 4578 1144 www.richmondclub.com.au

32 

Drift effortlessly over the most beautiful landscape in the Sydney region the Hawkesbury Valley. Lying at the foot of 

the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area following the quiet meander of the Hawkesbury River. It’s relaxing yet 

exhilarating, the oldest and greatest form of flight making it suitable for any age from the young to the young at heart. 

Cloud 9 is an award winning Australian owned and operated family business who pioneered hot air ballooning over 

Sydney in 1993. So if you seek a small group experience with a professional yet personal touch, come fly with us! 

Book now, call us on 1300 555 711 


Email: info@cloud9balloons.com.au 

www.cloud9balloons.com.au

Oh! The Poetic & Dreamy Food Convict Trail Fly Like Never Before

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