Mudgee feature

Mudgee is an attractive and sophisticated country town of fine old buildings, located in the broad, picturesque and fertile Cudgegong River Valley. Surrounded by gently undulating hills it is noted primarily for more than 40 superb vineyards and outstanding providores, cafes and restaurants which accompany the vineyards and cellar doors. The area is also known for for its fine wool, beef, fat lambs, cereal crops, lucerne, vegetables and honey. It is the third largest grape growing region in New South Wales. Mudgee is an attractive and sophisticated country town of fine old buildings, located in the broad, picturesque and fertile Cudgegong River Valley. Surrounded by gently undulating hills it is noted primarily for more than 40 superb vineyards and outstanding providores, cafes and restaurants which accompany the vineyards and cellar doors. The area is also known for for its fine wool, beef, fat lambs, cereal crops, lucerne, vegetables and honey. It is the third largest grape growing region in New South Wales.

Mudgee is situated 266 km north-west of Sydney via Katoomba and the Great Western Highway. It is 454 m above sea-level. Mudgee is situated 266 km north-west of Sydney via Katoomba and the Great Western Highway. It is 454 m above sea-level.

It is claimed that ‘Mudgee’ is a corruption of a Wiradjuri Aboriginal term, ‘Moothi’, meaning ‘nest in the hills’. It is claimed that ‘Mudgee’ is a corruption of a Wiradjuri Aboriginal term, ‘Moothi’, meaning ‘nest in the hills’.

Things to See and DoThings to See and Do

Mudgee CBD Walk There is a pleasant and informative walk around the Mudgee CBD which covers approximately 2.8 km, starts at the Visitor Information Centre (where you can pick up a brochure) and includes 16 places of historic interest. Mudgee CBD Walk There is a pleasant and informative walk around the Mudgee CBD which covers approximately 2.8 km, starts at the Visitor Information Centre (where you can pick up a brochure) and includes 16 places of historic interest.

1. Robertson Park Robertson Park was Mudgee’s first market place (it was originally known as Market Square) and the venue of the first Mudgee Show in 1846. It has beautiful gardens, a band rotunda (1903) which was built to honour the local MP Sir John Robertson who was the Premier of NSW, and a war memorial honouring the men who fought in the Boer War. 1. Robertson Park Robertson Park was Mudgee’s first market place (it was originally known as Market Square) and the venue of the first Mudgee Show in 1846. It has beautiful gardens, a band rotunda (1903) which was built to honour the local MP Sir John Robertson who was the Premier of NSW, and a war memorial honouring the men who fought in the Boer War.

2. Post Office Located on the corner of Market and Perry Streets, this unusual single storey Classical Revival stuccoed-brick post office was built in 1862. It was one of the first major country post offices in the state. An impressive building it features an arcade with a pediment parapet and small belltower. 2. Post Office Located on the corner of Market and Perry Streets, this unusual single storey Classical Revival stuccoed-brick post office was built in 1862. It was one of the first major country post offices in the state. An impressive building it features an arcade with a pediment parapet and small belltower.

3. Dear, Loneragan and Hogan (DLH Solicitors) Located at 70 Market Street, this interesting two storey building dates from 1884 when it was built by the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney (CBC Bank). It closed in 1974 when it became the NAB and subsequently became the offices of a local firm of solicitors. 3. Dear, Loneragan and Hogan (DLH Solicitors) Located at 70 Market Street, this interesting two storey building dates from 1884 when it was built by the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney (CBC Bank). It closed in 1974 when it became the NAB and subsequently became the offices of a local firm of solicitors. 4. Town Hall A centrepiece for a very impressive run of heritage buildings, the Town Hall at 64 Market Street was built in 1880 and extensively renovated in 2012-2013. It is officially classified by the National Trust. The Heritage Council of New South Wales notes: “It is neo-classic in style having stuccoed pediments to windows and the elaborate central roof gable containing the date and name plaque and ventilator. The structure is of brick with stuccoed quions, window surrounds and central balcony - porch. A small mansard roof of corrugated iron is set behind a low parapet at the front and is surmounted by a flagpole turret with cast iron crestings.” 4. Town Hall A centrepiece for a very impressive run of heritage buildings, the Town Hall at 64 Market Street was built in 1880 and extensively renovated in 2012-2013. It is officially classified by the National Trust. The Heritage Council of New South Wales notes: “It is neo-classic in style having stuccoed pediments to windows and the elaborate central roof gable containing the date and name plaque and ventilator. The structure is of brick with stuccoed quions, window surrounds and central balcony - porch. A small mansard roof of corrugated iron is set behind a low parapet at the front and is surmounted by a flagpole turret with cast iron crestings.”

5. Hannaford Cox Connellan McFarland Located at 62 Market Street this handsome building was built in the late 1920s and originally occupied by the State Bank of New South Wales which became the Rural Bank around 1935. It has been classified by the National Trust. 5. Hannaford Cox Connellan McFarland Located at 62 Market Street this handsome building was built in the late 1920s and originally occupied by the State Bank of New South Wales which became the Rural Bank around 1935. It has been classified by the National Trust.

6. St John the Baptist Anglican Church Located on the north-western corner of Market Street is St John the Baptist’s Anglican Church (1860-61). The large organ dates from 1881 and the church has some notable stained-glass windows. In Church Street is the Sunday school hall which was built in 1860 as an Anglican school. 6. St John the Baptist Anglican Church Located on the north-western corner of Market Street is St John the Baptist’s Anglican Church (1860-61). The large organ dates from 1881 and the church has some notable stained-glass windows. In Church Street is the Sunday school hall which was built in 1860 as an Anglican school.

7. Clock Tower The Clock Tower dominates the top end of Market Street. It was a gift from Ivan Adams and is a War Memorial. 7. Clock Tower The Clock Tower dominates the top end of Market Street. It was a gift from Ivan Adams and is a War Memorial.

8. Regent Picture Theatre Located in Church Street, the Regent Picture Theatre is a fine example of an Art Deco 1930s picture theatre. Designed by Douglas Smith was opened in 1935. It still has some particularly impressive murals of Disney characters. 8. Regent Picture Theatre Located in Church Street, the Regent Picture Theatre is a fine example of an Art Deco 1930s picture theatre. Designed by Douglas Smith was opened in 1935. It still has some particularly impressive murals of Disney characters.

9. St Mary of the Presentation Roman Catholic Church At the south-eastern corner of Market and Church Streets is the Gothic Revival St Mary of the Presentation Catholic Church. The sanctuary and vestry are part of the original 1857 sandstone building, with the present body added in 1873-76 and the steeple in 1911. The presbytery (1851-52) is one of the oldest standing buildings in Mudgee. The church has an interesting mixture of Gothic and Byzantine architecture and the artist George de Pyro painted the impressive Stations of the Cross. 9. St Mary of the Presentation Roman Catholic Church At the south-eastern corner of Market and Church Streets is the Gothic Revival St Mary of the Presentation Catholic Church. The sanctuary and vestry are part of the original 1857 sandstone building, with the present body added in 1873-76 and the steeple in 1911. The presbytery (1851-52) is one of the oldest standing buildings in Mudgee. The church has an interesting mixture of Gothic and Byzantine architecture and the artist George de Pyro painted the impressive Stations of the Cross.

10. Loneragan’s Store Stretching along Church Street, beyond St John the Baptist Church is Loneragan’s Store which was opened as a department store in 1873 and continued trading until 1984. Today it is divided up into smaller shops. 10. Loneragan’s Store Stretching along Church Street, beyond St John the Baptist Church is Loneragan’s Store which was opened as a department store in 1873 and continued trading until 1984. Today it is divided up into smaller shops.

11. Kelly’s Irish Pub Now known as Kelly’s Irish Pub, the hotel on the corner of Church Street and Mortimer Street has been variously known as The Mudgee, The Waratah, Lamont’s General Store and The Sydney Hotel. 11. Kelly’s Irish Pub Now known as Kelly’s Irish Pub, the hotel on the corner of Church Street and Mortimer Street has been variously known as The Mudgee, The Waratah, Lamont’s General Store and The Sydney Hotel.

13. The Uniting Church Located at 89 Mortimer Street is the Methodist (now Uniting) Church which was built 1863-64. The first Wesleyan Chapel was built in 1853 and is now incorporated into the block of shops at the corner of Mortimer and Church Streets. 13. The Uniting Church Located at 89 Mortimer Street is the Methodist (now Uniting) Church which was built 1863-64. The first Wesleyan Chapel was built in 1853 and is now incorporated into the block of shops at the corner of Mortimer and Church Streets.

16. Cobb & Co Boutique Hotel Located on the corner of Perry and Market Streets, this fascinating historic building, now called Cobb & Co Court, was built in the 1850s, is one of the oldest buildings in Mudgee, and was once used as an overnight stopping place by Cobb & Co Coaches. 16. Cobb & Co Boutique Hotel Located on the corner of Perry and Market Streets, this fascinating historic building, now called Cobb & Co Court, was built in the 1850s, is one of the oldest buildings in Mudgee, and was once used as an overnight stopping place by Cobb & Co Coaches.

The delicate subtle nuances and warmth of Bunnamagoo Estate Wines, transport patrons on a journey allowing them to taste the attention to detail it has taken to produce such an extraordinary wine. Located in the Central Ranges of NSW, Mudgee, the grapes grown to produce the wine reflect Rockley’s deep volcanic basalt soils, resulting in a cooler climate style of wine and the Eurunderee vineyard, not far from Mudgee’s warmer climate and variable soils under laid with limestone.

Mudgee Special providing quality country hospitality. These wine experts are able to answer any questions while guiding guests through each wine with as much detail and passion in the same way the wines were made.

Bunnamagoo Estate Wines not only produce some of the best wines in the world, but also strive to involve their guests in events and functions, sharing their passion for great wine, food and the beauty of the area of Mudgee and surrounds. March 14th sees the Smokin Bro &Co. pop up, which invites guests to come and enjoy the lawns of the Estates cellar door while enjoying the wine and ale as well as Smokin’ Bro & Co.’s low n slow BBQ. The event is child and pet friendly with food options for all ages.

The Grapfest 5km Run event is on the 4th of April and is a great way to get moving out in the fresh air amongst Mudgee’s most scenic vineyards. Later there is an opportunity to get your ‘Wine Waddle’ on while sampling the Estates best wines before enjoying the live entertainment later in the afternoon.

Bunnamagoo Estate Since 2002, Robert Black has been the wine-maker for Bunnamagoo Estate, providing a true Bud to Bottle process. Robert is involved in every step of the wine making process, carefully choosing the best fruit and discussing with the vigneron’s each decision, treating the grapes with the individuality they deserve. Roberts passion and artistry which goes into the wine, has created award winning ranges, growing the success of the Estate. The processes used is as far from factory methods as possible and ensures the same high standards are met with every variety being bottled. Stuart and Deb Hughes have developed the brand and overseen the growth of Bunnamagoo wines through their management skills for over 20 years. The team welcoming guests at the cellar door, pride themselves on their approachable and friendly nature while April brings some of the most beautiful weather to enjoy the sunshine in an exquisite setting. Celebrate the Easter long weekend with friends or family by listening to the live music while enjoying freshly shucked oysters and prawns. The kids will be kept busy with the Toy Story Jumping Castle, making new friends, leaving the adults to relish an easy-going afternoon. Later in the year Bunnamagoo Estate holds two events on September 11th and 12th. Mini Muddies is a day of exercise and fitness for primary and high school children, to challenge their bodies through obstacle courses while having fun mixed with healthy competition. The schools vs schools inter house battle, encourages children to not only work in a team but to also meet and interact with other kids from different schools.

Mudgee Special The following day is the ‘Suck It Up Buttercup’ event which pushes the body to new limits, through muddy, boggy and wet terrain. While getting wet and dirty, participants can still enjoy the scenic views and beautiful landscape. This year’s theme is Vikings, conjures the necessary attitude to tackle this year’s course.

As well as the years scheduled events, Bunnamagoo also caters for weddings in their Lush vineyards and vast green lawns. There are two perfect sites for a ceremony or reception, ensuring a memorable day for guests and family.

Each bottle is corked and labelled with love and precision and presented in a way which captures the Estates true essence. The attention to detail has also been given to Bunnamagoo Estate Wines labels as they feature the historic Bunnamagoo Homestead. The name Bunnamagoo came from the local Aboriginals and translates as the meeting of waters. The rich history of the Homestead dates back to 1827, Thomas Pye, when a pardoned convicted, secured the land and with the help of convict labourers built the homestead. By the time the Paspaley family acquired the property in 1992, the homestead had been altered and was in disrepair. A local architect was commissioned to restore the house and, with due regard to its historical significance, to make additions to enable the house to be used as the homestead of a working farm.

Bunnamagoo is much more then a winery. It is a place to spend time with family and friends while enjoying the stunning views

and beautiful wines. Bunnamagoo holds events which cater for everyone as the Estates team welcomes your family to join their family in a celebrating life. Cellar door open 7 days, 10am to 4pm.

Creating a Mudgee Moment is made easier with the tours on offer from Sandy and Maritza at Country Escape Tours. These two friends have built a business to highlight Mudgee’s incredible area with natural beauty coupled with local wineries who produce some of the best products in Australia. Country Escape Tours understand the area and enjoy sharing Mudgee’s allure with their guests through their wide variety of tours. Saturday and Sunday mornings from October through April, guests are invited to enjoy the Breakfast in the Vines tour. After a breakfast filled with local produce, enjoying the sights and sounds of the vineyard, visitors can enjoy tasting wines at three other wineries.

Country Escape Tours Mudgee 90x90 ad plus editorial above Enjoy the great outdoors with a morning horse ride through a gorgeous bush setting. Wind through beautiful scenery and soak up the peace and serenity of the landscape. Indulge in lunch before your guide takes you to taste the local wines of Mudgee. Sip and swirl your way around the vineyards and enjoy all the local produce the area has to offer. We cater for beginners to experienced riders including children. The Feel the Love tour option is a great way to spend quality time with your partner celebrating the love you share. Ideal as a valentines, birthday or anniversary gift this tour offers a romantic breakfast in the vines with a bottle of bubbly as well as a personalised wine tasting. Lowe Wines will share their knowledge and passion of wine making as you wander through the vines learning about how an organic and biodynamic property operates. Before lunch guests can enjoy the award-winning cheeses as well as visiting a local olive grove with the opportunity to taste the oils, olives, vinegars, tapenade and much more. Winding the afternoon down couples can taste drinking shrubs and cocktails before indulging in local made chocolates which are matched with fortified wines.

Country Escape Tours go above and beyond for the guests and provide an experience like no other. There are many tour packages to choose from and something that suites everyone’s time frame, budget and interests. The tours take into account the seasonal weather insuring the comfort of their guests at all times. Complementary transfers from your accommodation is an option which takes the stress out of worrying about transport to and from your chosen tours.

Guests can even create their own Mudgee Moment with the Mudgee Hopper tour. The tour bus runs the route all day with the option of an all-day pass or a 3.5hr pass. This is a casual approach to enjoying the Mudgee region which allows visitors to see where the day takes them.

The endless options provided by Country Escape Tours really do cater for any group or any occasion. Sandy and Maritza are very proud of Mudgee and the beauty and products the area has to offer visitors. Their enthusiasm and passion can be felt through the unique tours leaving their guests feeling well looked after and overwhelmingly satisfied. To experience a tour of Mudgee with a difference you can contact

Country Escape Tours Phone: 0450 654 260 or 0477 782 290

From a few beers with mates, Mudgee Brewing Co has risen to success from a simple idea to become the forefront of the craft beer renaissance in Australia. Gary Leonard not only enjoys a quiet drink but also exploring and learning all about the techniques and heritage that go into making the different styles of craft beer. His passion lead Gary to choose Mudgee as the perfect location to establish the Mudgee Brewing Company.

couple well with the selection of brews offering a laid back afternoon with mates or a family gathering.

Mudgee Brewing Co has not only tapped into Mudgee’s long heritage of beer making but the rich heritage of the area, conducting their brews out of a rustic 100-year-old red brick former wool store. Gary Leonard continues his journey and exploration of the craft beer world and produces fine, crafted beers ranging from seasonable pale ales to the rich taste of Mudgee.

Gary Leonard

Mudgee has a long history of brewing dating back to 1853 with the establishment of Crossings Brewery followed by Federal Brewery in 1883. Federal Brewery closed its doors in 1956 but not before instilling the legend of Mudgee Mud, which came about because of the amount of sediment in the beer due to a difference in the water quality being used. This has inspired Mudgee Brewing Co’s very own imperial stout which boasts hints of aniseed and liquorice undertones. Its smooth drinkability is reflective of the high-quality water used in todays brew and has put Mudgee back on the map for their beer, ale, stout, porter and larger.

Mudgee Brewing Co hosts live music events and shares with guests the opportunity to meet the brewer and experience a tour like no other. Guests are welcomed to ask questions and learn about the brewing process as well as a grain tasting and a chance to smell the aromas from different hops. Taste 8 different beers and enjoy the included snacks while taking in the brewery’s surrounds, smells and tastes.

Gary and his team at Mudgee Brewing Co can also cater for those special occasions or meetings that crop up throughout life. Their main hall can comfortably seat 80-100 guests or stand up to 150. The mezzanine is a great personal space which can fit up to 30 guests and is perfect for a morning business meeting, bridal or baby showers or any event which requires a more intimate setting. The extensive menu range offers breakfast and lunch from Wednesday to Sunday and dinner from Thursday to Sunday. Their all day pizza and snack menu

Opening Hours

Monday & Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Thursday - Sunday: 8:00 am - Late

Open Mic Night - 1st Thursday of every month Live music on Fridays from 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Live music on Sundays from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Mudgee Brewing Company info@mudgeebrewing.com.au

Beers of the Month

Smokey Red – 5.1% The Smokey Red is a cracker of a smooth red ale. It has the hoppiness of an IPA with the smokey finish of a fine whiskey. Gary brewed this one to honour his wife, Debbie

Galaxy Pale Ale – 4.6% Brewed with Australian Hops this beer has a fruity up front hoppiness with a late bitterness. A beer suited to the Australian climate. Mudgee Mud – 8.5% Mudgee Mud is a rich and smooth imperial stout, which boasts hints of aniseed and liquorice undertones. Topped off with a creamy head this stout revives the legend of brewing in Mudgee.

Pale Ale – 4.4% This crisp & lighter style of Pale Ale makes it an ideal first beer, guaranteed to wipe the dust from the back of your throat or the office from you day.