Meet the Makers
The Heart of the Hinterland Treasure Trail
Ready to uncover the creative heart of our region? The Hinterland Treasure Trail is powered by a community of passionate individuals and families who pour their hearts into their craft. From unique artisanal goods to homegrown delights and immersive farm experiences, these are the Makers – the artists, the growers, and the small business owners whose stories define the trail. Scroll down to see who you'll meet, learn their passions, and plan your journey to visit each hidden gem!
Honourable Makers
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Araluen Studio
Shae is a self-taught woodworker, a wife, and mother of five, living in the bushland of Paterson, NSW. Through Araluen Studio, she creates functional pieces using reclaimed timber and sustainably sourced hardwoods. Her practice blends lathe work, Arbortech shaping, and traditional carving techniques to breathe new life into bush wood and salvaged materials—often sourced from old bridges, sheds, and local structures. Each piece reflects a practical design sensibility and a deep connection to place.
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Bernadette Meyers Art
Bernadette Meyers is a photographer and artist who captures the quiet elegance of the natural world. Her work invites viewers to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the beauty often overlooked in the rush of daily life.
She has exhibited in over 90 juried exhibitions worldwide in the past 30 years and has received awards across Australia, the UK, Europe, and the USA.
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Blake's Gelato
Blake's Gelato is a small scale Gelato producer, seller & wholesaler based in the Hunter Valley Maitland.
The idea behind Blake's Gelato began in 2006 during a family holiday to Tuscany. In 2016 the passion developed into experimenting with different recipes and ingredients until 2023 when Blake's Gelato was created. After Nine years, Blake's Gelato aims to bring Authentic Italian Gelati to Maitland and the Hunter region with an emphasis on simple recipes and fresh ingredients.
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By Joanna Louise
Joanna Greenwood is a professionally trained artist whose work bursts with emotion and energy. Through her art, Joanna strives to uncover and narrate the story behind her subjects—whether they are objects, scenes, or people.
Whether capturing the fleeting beauty of nature, the intricate textures of everyday life, or the emotions that define human experience, Joanna Greenwood’s art speaks directly to the heart, making every piece an unforgettable celebration of life’s stories.
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Camelot Valley Farm
Tucked away in the native bushland of Eagleton, Camelot Valley Farm embraces a harmonious approach to beekeeping and biodiversity. Their bees forage among ironbarks, lemon-scented gums and wattles, producing raw Australian honey, beeswax balms, salves and wraps - all created with care for the environment.
More than a honey producer, Camelot Valley Farm is deeply committed to conservation - protecting habitats for koalas, swift parrots and native frogs, and ensuring the surrounding bushland thrives for generations to come.
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Ela Flora
Meet Ela Flora, where fresh blooms, dried florals and creative hands come together to bring nature’s beauty to life. Inspired by native Australian and South African blooms, each arrangement and bundle is thoughtfully curated, grown or sourced in the Hunter Valley and Port Stephens region.
Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind bouquet, or a preserved piece of floral art - Ash has you covered.
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Farmhouse Forge
Farmhouse Forge exists to make cookware the old way - by hand at the anvil, in small batches. Every pan is built to be used hard, to cook over fire or on the stove, and to last long enough to be passed down through the generations. The forge stands against the throwaway culture of cheap imports and synthetic coatings. They believe Australians are waking up to the truth: PFAS and other non-stick chemicals don’t belong anywhere near the food we eat.
Rooted in local craft, Farmhouse Forge keeps it authentic - no shortcuts, no compromises. Just honest carbon steel, hand forged with care and made to serve a lifetime.
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FlashAsh Productions
Capture the magic of the season with Flashash Productions - Christmas Photo Sessions set amongst the Sunflowers.
Nestled among golden blooms, you and your loved ones will be joined by Santa & Mrs. Claus for a festive and unforgettable photo experience.
Perfect for families, couples, or even just the kids—these mini sessions are limited and book out fast. Don’t miss your chance to create holiday memories in a truly magical setting.
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Fosterton Retreat
Tucked away in the peaceful Dungog countryside, Fosterton Retreat offers 100 acres of natural beauty overlooking the Barrington Tops National Park. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect — whether you’re soaking in the mountain views, sharing stories by the firepit, or wandering through bushland alive with birdsong and wallabies.
With eco-friendly accommodation, open spaces for yoga or gatherings, and a focus on simple, sustainable living, Fosterton Retreat is an invitation to unwind and rediscover balance in nature.
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FromLucieandMarco
Lucie and Marco are passionate ethical growers and fight hard against the injustices of the world. They grow chemical free food and flowers, using biodynamic principles at Shepherds Ground, Butterwick.
For this weekend, there will be a special offering of garlic plaiting workshopsfor beginners. Learn to plait your own freshly harvested garlic. Garlic will be sold per kg and we will then demonstrate how make your very own garlic plait creation. You can make as many as you would like (they make great Christmas gifts!).
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Gumnut Valley Alpacas
Gumnut Valley Alpacas is a boutique Alpaca farm in beautiful Butterwick. Established in 2020, Steve and Marian enjoy connecting people of all ages with their friendly alpacas, cheeky Nigerian dwarf goats, adorable miniature donkeys and fluffy silkie chickens.
Steve and Marian are passionate about rescuing neglected and unwanted alpacas and dedicate much time, effort and money to give less fortunate alpacas a second chance of life through rehabilitation before finding them a new forever home. The proceeds from their farm activities allows them to continue to provide for alpacas in need.
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Happy Ever After
Happy Ever After Coffee Co. began with one woman’s dream to build a simple, meaningful life on a little farm in Clarence Town. When Tina Belle’s career in veterinary medicine was cut short by health challenges, she poured her love for animals, nature and people into creating a place where the community could connect over great coffee and kindness.
What started as a few hens and an idea grew into Crazy Chick Café a warm, ever-changing space serving locally roasted coffee, organic teas, homemade treats and showcasing local makers. Here, you’ll always find good coffee, genuine smiles, and a reminder that even the toughest roads can lead somewhere beautiful.
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Hunter Valley Sunflowers
A much loved attraction of the region already, but this weekend Glen and Kirsten are really getting behind the Treasure Trail with some extra treats: Pick your own sunflowers, Petting zoo, Picnic in the Patch, BBQ from Kingfisher Pastoral (paddock to plate beef), Snow cones, Soft drinks, Pick your own Veggies, Tractor hay rides, Mini photo shoots (family portraits), Christmas photos with Santa and Mrs Claus (professional photos)! Plus some surprise pop up vendors.
A solid stop for your crew!!!
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In Our Hands Family Farm
This permaculture farm grows food sustainably, raises resilient kids, fosters futures and builds strong local systems. Jacqui is gradually transforming 8 acres into a rich, diverse ecosystem. The FarmGate (open daily) provides all kinds of goodies produced on-site. Regular workshops to inspire all.
Especially for the treasure trail, a new community garden has been built allowing participants to enjoy the growth and have a conversation about sustainable gardening methods.
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Magic Starfish Tie Die
Bringing colour, joy and creativity to the day, Magic Starfish will be selling a vibrant collection of hand-dyed clothing and accessories. Each piece is lovingly crafted at home in Paterson using playful bursts of colour and a spirit of fun that’s impossible to resist.
From swirling shirts to rainbow-bright fabrics, every item is unique — just like the people who wear them. Come say hello, browse the colours, and maybe take home a little piece of sunshine.
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Permaculture in the Paddock
Join Liz for an inspiring wander through her thriving permaculture property in the lush Fosterton Valley. These guided tours invite you to explore the interconnected systems that make a sustainable farm come alive - from abundant gardens and thriving orchards to healthy soil.
As you stroll through the paddocks, Liz shares her deep knowledge of permaculture design, natural cycles, and regenerative practises. You’ll discover how every element — vegetables, trees, water and wildlife — works together in harmony, leaving you inspired to create abundance in your own backyard.
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Rosewood & Fig
Rosewood & Fig is a small, unique flower farm nestled in the hills of Duns Creek, where seed and sunlight come together to grow beautiful, seasonal blooms. Using organic, permaculture-based methods, they nurture the bees, the flowers and you — inviting visitors to slow down, unwind and connect with nature’s rhythm.
Browse freshly picked seasonal bouquets, dried flower posies, and handmade Christmas wreaths and decorations crafted from farm-grown blooms. You’ll also find locally sourced beeswax candles and a charming Flower Bar, where you can create your own bouquet to collect later from the cooler — a perfect blend of creativity and country calm.
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The Coffee Cubby
We serve up freshly made coffee including Espressos, velvety lattes, bold long blacks, creamy cappuccinos and indulgent mochas. For those who prefer something chilled, our iced coffees and old fashioned milkshakes are perfect for those warm sunny days.
Pair your drink with a selection of sweet and savoury bites. We have flaky croissants, buttery banana bread, hearty toasties and locally made muffins and slices. We also offer gluten free options. As a special offering, especially for the Treasure Trail, we will be cooking up a good country style breakfast of Bacon & Eggs. The perfect way to start your adventure!
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The Dirty Gardener
Step into a garden lover’s paradise created by Tracee in Woodville. With lush greenery, creative pots, natives, veggie seedlings, indoor plants and a quirky selection of gifts, this friendly nursery offers something special for every corner of your home or garden.
Bring the family along for a relaxed visit: the nursery features a sand-pit play area, a memorable farm-animal experience and a coffee van to keep you comfy while you browse. Pack a picnic and stay a while — Tracee welcomes you to make a day of it, whether you’re digging into your next garden project or simply soaking up the nature-filled atmosphere.
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The Gump Farm
On this warm, family-run working farm, Maddi, Jeremy and their four enthusiastic children share daily life in full swing: tending bees, gathering fresh eggs, managing cattle and harvesting seasonal produce. Their hands-on approach shines through as visitors are welcomed into real farm routines and genuine rural rhythms.
Children can pat the friendly animals, explore a playful garden space and even take home a seedling or packet of seeds. Meanwhile, the family’s own fresh-milk and honey production underscores the simple joy of staying close to the land.
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Tocal Homestead & Farm Tours
Set on a sprawling 2,200-hectare estate in the Paterson Valley of NSW, Tocal Agricultural College offers a living classroom where students learn modern farming — from beef and dairy production to sheep, stock-horses and bees.
Just across the ridge stands the heritage-listed Tocal Homestead, a fine colonial-era property overlooking lagoon and river, whose restored buildings tell the story of farming in Australia’s past. Visitors can explore its historic farm complex, and witness how land, architecture and education converge at this unique rural landmark.
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The Barn at Urban Connection
Alecia’s lifelong love of plants has taken her from Sydney’s northern suburbs to Scotland and London, where she managed an equine facility and a plant nursery before returning to Australia to pursue commercial horticulture.
Now based in Eagleton with her husband Lloyd, Alecia has created Urban Connection - a luxurious haven nestled among the trees, offering guests a tranquil space to unwind, recharge, and reconnect amid evolving gardens and flourishing wildflowers.
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Tranquil Vale Vinyard
Nestled on a peaceful bend of the Hunter River, Tranquil Vale is a boutique 25-acre vineyard producing estate-grown Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz. This family-run gem offers warm hospitality and an authentic taste of the Hunter.
Join them for an intimate tasting experience - sample small-batch wines, enjoy Connie’s famed sourdough, and chat with the vintner to discover the craft and care behind every bottle. A true celebration of family, flavour and the land that sustains them.
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Ballimore Farms
Located in the picturesque Seaham, our family-owned farm is where tradition, innovation, and a passion for quality come together to create something truly special. From our herd of happy dairy goats and Jersey cows to your table, we’re dedicated to producing the freshest, most delicious sweet cheeses and gelato you’ll ever taste.
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Bean Caffiend
Lisa
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Blackwood Apothecary
Sarah is an incredibly talented naturopath, who bring constant smiles, laughter, and warm, good-natured energy!
She has a true gift for holding space for her clients, making them feel truly heard, and empowering them with knowledge about their health.
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Brett's Goats
Meet the adorable stars of Brett’s Goats! Come cuddle and feed playful baby goats, watch a fascinating goat-milking demonstration, and learn all about the health benefits of fresh goat’s milk. Brett shares his passion for these gentle animals and the goodness they provide — a wholesome, hands-on experience for all ages!
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Carinya Downs
Led by Crissy and Mick, Carinya Downs is family-run, 25-acre permaculture farm in Lochinvar that’s transforming a once overgrazed property into a thriving, biodiverse ecosystem.
Learn how the farm translates produce into their line of Native Inspired products — from honey and bush tucker preserves to handcrafted beeswax and infused goods.
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Cinderella Arrivals
Cinderella Arrivals is Leeanne's labour of love for a uniquely beautiful, exquisite & magical experience. Her love of the rare all-black, heavy dutch horse (Friesian) drives Cinderella's Arrivals, with her vision to see a team of 8 or 10 Friesian horses up in front of her custom Black Pumpkin Carriage. Every carriage ride booking helps her bring these gorgeous horses back to life and see this ambitious dream become a reality!
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Committed Coffee Co
Based in East Maitland, this local cold brew company is all about smooth strength and focus in every sip. Their Cold Brew Concentrate is crafted for quality, flavour, and that perfect caffeine kick — whether poured over ice, blended with milk, or used in creative recipes. Keep your edge sharp and your energy steady with every brew.
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East Maitland Scout Group
Fuel your adventure with a classic Sausage Sizzle proudly run by the East Maitland Scout Group! Grab a sizzling snag straight off the barbecue, served with a smile by local Scouts. Every bite helps support youth programs that build confidence, skills, and community spirit. Simple, delicious, and for a great cause - don’t miss it!
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Erringhi Stone Farm
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Hat Tatts
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Heather's Honey
Heather is passionate about local honey. Her business offers raw honey, beeswax and honeycomb. See some beekeeping action, with her famous beekeeping demonstrations offered regularly, get inside the beezebo, roll a candle with the kids, spot the queen, plus bee races for the kids!
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Hick's Homegrown
A local gem on the farmgate trail, Hick’s Homegrown is all about fresh, farm-grown goodness and community spirit. Drop by to meet Amanda, spy the garden just over the fence, and pick up seasonal vegetables, homemade tallow products, homegrown flowers and a few gifts. Friendly, welcoming, and rooted in local care — Hick’s Homegrown is where your food comes with a story.
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Jessica from In Our Hands Family Farm
Jessica is 10 years old and can’t wait to be part of the action! With a big smile and plenty of enthusiasm, she’ll be running her very own lemonade stand for the day, squeezing and serving fresh, homemade lemonade. Come say hello, grab a cool drink, and support this Junior Hand in her first farmgate adventure!
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Junior Herbalist Club
Our young herbalists have been busy learning the magic of plants and now they’re ready to share their creations with you! From soothing balms and bath blends to herbal teas and tinctures, each item cares for you and the natural world. Come along and support these inspiring young makers as they share what they’ve learnt with a whole lot of heart.
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Paint Sip & Giggle
Get ready for a splash of paint, a sip of something lovely, and a whole lot of laughter! Paint, Sip & Giggle invites you to an informal, joy-filled creative session where no experience is needed—just your curiosity and sense of play. Bring your favourite drink, make new friends, and let’s turn blank canvases into colourful stories together.
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Pan's Forest
Pan’s Forest is a third-generation family farm in Woodville, lovingly tended by Lisa, Mus and their two young daughters. Together they care for happy, free-roaming hens that produce rich, flavourful open-range eggs, and raise cattle on lush pastures to create pure, 100% grass-fed beef tallow products. It’s wholesome, hands-on farming, straight from a family who lives it every day.
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River Roast
River Roast is a boutique coffee roaster and café based in Maitland, producing small-batch, award-winning blends roasted to order. Drop in to enjoy a fresh pour, discover their signature beans, learn about the roasting and brewing process and take home a bag of local flavour.
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Rock Frog Grange
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Serendipity Coffee
A vintage caravan on the move, Serendipity Coffee Van brings freshly brewed joy wherever it sets up. Serving coffees and refreshments straight from the van, this mobile café brings warmth, flavour and good company to your day. Pop by for a freshly made brew, a friendly chat, and a little serendipity in your cup.
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Spiral Sisters
Gather beneath the old ironbarks for an afternoon of weaving, story-sharing and connection. Sitting in a circle of stones, we’ll use natural fibres and found materials to create something beautiful. Bring your hands, your heart and a willingness to slow down — the rhythm of weaving invites calm, creativity and conversation beneath the scent of eucalyptus.
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The Cosmos Co.
The Cosmos Cabin is a beautiful and private, sustainably hand built space, surrounded by nature, situated just ten minutes from Maitland, on Purple Pear Permaculture and Biodynamic Farm.
The property has been carefully tended to and nurtured over the past decades by its owners, and this is very much felt when being there.
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The Nourishing Mumma
Meet Laura, bringing her beautifully handcrafted elderberry kits to the trail. Each kit is a labour of love, inspired by simple, nourishing rituals and a deep care for community wellness. Whether you’re after a thoughtful gift, a kitchen adventure, or a wholesome boost for the family, Laura’s creations are made to nourish and delight.
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The Pickled Patch
Based in Medowie, Kellie from The Pickled Patch brings her passion for permaculture and fungi to life through engaging workshops. A passionate educator, she teaches people how to grow edible and medicinal mushrooms at home using simple, sustainable methods. Her sessions blend practical skills with a love of nature, inspiring others to cultivate nourishment and resilience.
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Three Muscat's Fibre Farm
Discover the artistry of fibre from Three Muscats Fibre Farm, where creativity and nature intertwine. Learn to weave, spin and dye while exploring locally grown, botanically dyed wool yarns. Browse their range of textiles, DIY creative kits and aromatherapy products - each piece crafted with care, colour and a deep connection to the land and its gentle rhythm.
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Unicorn Rides
Step into a world of magic with Alex’s Unicorn Rides! Children can meet a gentle white pony adorned with a rainbow mane, sparkling horn, and a sprinkle of fairy dust. Perfect for photos, imagination, and joy — these enchanting rides bring a touch of wonder and whimsy to your day. A truly magical experience for little dreamers!
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Wilder Farm
At Wilder Farm Eggs in Nelson’s Plains, Anne and her happy hens produce colourful, pasture-raised rainbow eggs full of flavour and vitality. Alongside the eggs, you’ll find her wholesome seed bread and homemade relish — simple, nourishing foods made with care. It’s honest, small-scale farming at its best, celebrating freshness, colour and the joy of good food.
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WholeFood Family
Wholefood Family is the creation of Jane Jenkinson — passionate fermenter, educator and advocate for gut health. Since launching her Kvassaria in 2018, Jane has shared handcrafted, wild-fermented tonics and small-batch goods made with love. Rooted in creativity and respect for natural foods, Wholefood Family invites you to explore fermentation as a path to everyday nourishment.