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#51 Regional Lifestyle | Summer 2025

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SUMMER

Tenterf ield FEATURE

Social events at Holbrook and Warwick

RLM 50th edition Launch Highlights

Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales & Southern Queensland


The Art of Sophistication and Style Sophistication and style meet classic charm at Yallungah Boutique Hotel, a refined retreat in the heart of Orange, NSW. A one-of-a-kind destination for work or play, we fuse contemporary art and striking design in a beautifully restored heritage homestead.

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Distinctly different heritage accommodation in Tumut, the heart of the Snowy Valleys. Relax, unwind and enjoy everything we have to offer.

0487 858 339 12 Wynyard St Tumut, NSW 2720 themonarchtumut@gmail.com themonarchtumut.com


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W E S T W YA L O N G NARADHAN

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W YA L O N G

TA L L I M B A

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BARMEDMAN

KIKOIRA

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H E A R T S O F G O L D C O U N T RY Discover a place where opportunity meets community, and history shapes a vibrant future — welcome to the Bland Shire, the heart of regional NSW and home to the thriving town of West Wyalong. Why West Wyalong? ▪ Convenient location ▪ Thriving economy ▪ Scenic natural beauty ▪ Rich historical sites ▪ Supportive and welcoming community

EXPLORE DREAM D E S T I N AT I O N visitwestwyalong@blandshire.nsw.gov.au 02 6979 0247 6 Shire Street, West Wyalong, NSW

UNGARIE

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MIRROOL

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WEETHALLE


Nestled in the heart of Marrar, Drovers Run is a boutique country bed and breakfast where rustic charm meets high-end comfort. Overlooking wide-open paddocks and lovingly landscaped gardens, this escape offers uniquely styled rooms, each named after a local drover. Guests can unwind on the veranda, meet the friendly farm animals, or roast marshmallows by the fire pit under the stars. With its rich heritage, romantic touches, and warm hospitality, Drovers Run is a true celebration of rural life – a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and savour the magic of the country.

~ A stay here is unforgettable ~

42 Woodens Lane, Marrar, NSW 2652 The best way to book your stay is to give us a call 0418 697 704

droversrun.com.au


A L O C A L FAVO U R I T E S I N C E 1 8 8 0 Fresh off a major makeover, the Coolamon Hotel blends classic charm with a modern feel. Grab a drink and bite to eat and relax in one of our unique spaces — from the sunny glasshouse to the garden or front bar. With stylish accommodation coming soon and a menu that’s got something for all tastes, we look forward to welcoming you at the Coolamon Hotel.

Ph. 02 6927 2290 info@coolamonhotel.com.au Cnr. Cowabbie & Wade Streets Coolamon NSW 2701

Open 7 days from 11.30am til late

coolamonhotel.com.au


CENTRAL WEST LIFESTYLE PTY LTD

CONTENT COVERAGE AREA

Trading as Regional Lifestyle Magazine ABN 151 6322 9418 ADDRESS PO BOX 1050 DUBBO NSW 2830 PHONE 0429 441 086 WEBSITE www.lifestylemagazine.net.au FACEBOOK @RegionalLifestyleMagazine INSTAGRAM @RegionalLifestyleMagazine PUBLISHERS, ACCOUNTS & ADVERTISING Elizabeth & Alex Tickle info@lifestylemagazine.net.au EDITOR Elizabeth Tickle editor@lifestylemagazine.net.au ART DIRECTOR Zora Regulic artdirector@lifestylemagazine.net.au

DISTRIBUTION Regional Lifestyle Magazine is published quarterly (available at the beginning of each season) and distributed to selected newsagents and retail outlets in Southern Queensland, Northern Victoria and within the Central West and in the surrounding regions of the Far West, New England & North West, Riverina & Southern Slopes, the Monaro, Southern Highlands, Canberra, Northern and Eastern suburbs of Sydney, in addition to a selection of other rural and coastal areas of New South Wales. Subscriptions and back issues are also available to read online, on desktop and mobile devices. Unsold magazines are distributed to cafes, health waiting rooms, quality hotels/motels, bed and breakfast establishments, hair and beauty salons and tourist outlets.

Regional Lifestyle showcases authentic content from across rural and regional New South Wales, Southern Queensland and Northern Victoria. The heart of the magazine is in the Central West of New South Wales, but a great story knows no boundaries. We are continually amazed by the innovation, inspiration and spirit that we find time and time again in communities both within the Central West and further afield. It is our passion and privilege to bring these stories to you.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE To order a subscription or back issue (mailed or online), visit www.lifestylemagazine.net.au © Central West Lifestyle Pty Ltd 2025 All Rights Reserved No part of this magazine may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the publisher. While every care is taken in the publication of Regional Lifestyle Magazine, the publishers will not be held responsible for omissions, errors or their subsequent effects.

Pegasus Media & Logistics is an environmentally responsible printing company that is committed to helping achieve a sustainable environment. To underscore our commitment to environmental sustainability, Pegasus Media & Logistics is FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) certified, guaranteeing that material comes from forests which are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations. Pegasus Media & Logistics is also an accredited ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001 supplier, which ensures each step of our production process is aligned with world’s best practice to deliver the finest quality possible. Together these accreditations offered by Pegasus Media & Logistics, offer our clients a guarantee that their printed products are produced by world’s best practice environmental and finest quality standards.

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CONTENTS ISSUE 51 SUMMER 2025

TENTERFIELD FEATURE

GARDEN

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170 L ABOUR OF LOVE: See the amazing things Carol and Bill Campbell have achieved after 40 years in their garden.

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EALING PROJECT: Kim Massie found H the path to good health in her garden.

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EADY, MR MUSIC: Jenel Hunt profiles R Patrick Pickett’s brilliant career.

110 A DIFFERENT APPROACH: The Hilliers aren’t a family that follows the crowd. 129 C OBB & CO RIDES AGAIN: John Burton has recreated a legend in Liston. 142 C LICK GO THE SHEARS: A group of enthusiasts is breathing new life into an iconic Australian woolshed.

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TRAVEL 174

I NTO THE WILD: Go on safari with John and Nicole without even leaving home! Tenterf ield

RECIPES

FEATURE

186 F ESTIVE FARE: Lorraine and Ruth have some fabulous dishes for you to make.

SOCIALS 206 F UN TIMES: Picnic races, a long lunch and celebrating 50 fabulous issues of Regional Lifestyle.

WEDDINGS 214 J UST MARRIED: Newlyweds take their vows in Jugiong, Toowoomba and Theodore.

Social events at Holbrook and Warwick

RLM 50th edition Launch Highlights

$20.00 inc GST SUMMER 2025 VOLUME 51 608033

I CON REJUVENATED: Follow the restoration of iconic Stannum House.

ISSN 2201-6082

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772201

COUNTRY CHARACTERS

SUMMER

Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales & Southern Queensland

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RUE COLOURS: Mayor Bronwyn Petrie T shares her love of the district.

ON THE COVER

Beauty abounds at Ivy Leaf Chapel and The Bungalow in Tenterfield. Image: Lara Flanagan Story begins on page 64.


Welcoming guests for over a century

Great meals. Cold beer. Accommodation + Fuel

The historic Hebel Hotel is the perfect place for lunch or dinner and a great yarn with the locals. Our Hotel hosts a range of events year round and can cater to any of your event needs, which can take place in our beautiful outdoor entertaining area. So whether you’re passing through or hail from a neighbouring town, be sure to stop at Hebel Hotel and General Store and say hello.

Hebel Hotel Ph. 07 4625 0923

General Store Ph. 07 4625 0920

Opening hours Open 7 days 10am to 12am

Opening hours Open 7 days 6am to 8pm

30 - 34 William Street Hebel, Queensland 4486 info@hebelhotel.com.au

www.hebelhotel.com.au


FROM THE PUBLISHERS

Another season to savour “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been and the memories we’ve made along the way.

Welcome to sunny Summer across New South Wales and southern Queensland.

We have big news!

The 50th edition has experienced the most phenomenal sales across our ever-expanding readership area, so much so, that for the first time ever, we needed to order additional copies from our printer, Pegasus Print Group in Sydney. Our feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’ve extended the Your Letters section across two pages this time to accommodate all the comments about this milestone edition. Our Spring launch held at the Drover’s Run at Marrar was an incredible night of celebration attended by more than 100 invited guests. See the three-page feature on page 206 in this edition.

Tenterfield feature

What a joy it has been to feature the Tenterfield Shire Council area for the second time. You will recall we first featured Tenterfield in Summer 2022 (together with Glen Innes). The council unanimously decided it was a good move to engage in a second showcase three years later. We’re very grateful for their continued vision and support. We hope you enjoy this magnificent area profiled across 228 pages. There’s a treasure trove of beautiful scenery and lots of interesting things to see and do as well as some totally inspirational and creative individuals who call this area home. We totally recommend a visit to the Tenterfield Shire Council area. You won’t be disappointed and will be planning your next trip even before you depart!

Autumn 2026 feature

We have discovered so much in the Richmond Valley Council area where Casino is the hub of this stunning region. “A journey of discovery” best describes our experiences on multiple visits to the district to meet story subjects, business owners and understand what makes the Richmond Valley so unique. We were warmly welcomed on our visits and really enjoyed learning about the interesting towns and villages located here. Watch out for this special edition, number 52, released in midFebruary 2026.

Out and about

About 50 per cent of our time is spent on the road, and some of our best memories are made at field days and open days. Not only are these great opportunities to sell current magazines and back copies, but to network, hear valued feedback and often discover future story topics. This year we have enjoyed having an RLM stand at the Mudgee Small Farm Field Days, Henty Machinery Field Days, the Australian National Field Days and various open days at Iandra Castle.

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ABOVE: The beautiful Tooloom Falls near Urbenville NSW. Image: Maureen Hogan

A great loss

We recently heard of the passing of much-loved Inverell citizen Peter Kearsey. You may recall Peter’s incredibly inspirational story titled Selfmade man, written by the late Jake Lindsay. It was on page 58 of the Inverell feature edition, Volume 43. We extend our deepest sympathy to Peter’s beloved wife Desie and to their extended family.

Welcome to new team members

Tyrone Ryan, of The Dusty Lens Creative Media has enthusiastically joined the RLM team. He represents a new generation of gifted photographers and videographers to share their skillset through our publication. You will continue to see his stunning work in future publications as well as in the Featured Photographer section of the Tenterfield feature and across many pages. Welcome also to talented writer Louisa Harvey, whose first story on Gilgandra high achiever Peta Bradley will astound and impress you! Until next time stay safe, count your blessings and share positivity with one and all.

Warmest regards, Elizabeth and Alex


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SUMMER 202 5 CONTRIBUTORS

meet your team

ELIZABETH TICKLE Publisher, Editor, Advertising

ALEX TICKLE

ZORA REGULIC

Publisher, Distribution, Advertising

Art Director

ANNA ROSE

Sub-editor & Writer

JENNIFER HARDEN

LIZ TICKNER Writer

Advertising Designer

SALLY MARCEAU

MELISSA DUNKERLEY Advertising Designer

Writer & Photographer

KIM WOODS

TYRONE RYAN

KATE BOSHAMMER

JENEL HUNT

ELIZABETH GRANT

RUTH FULTON

LORRAINE HILLS

SAPPHIRE DALY

HELEN TICKLE

LOUISA HARVEY

LYNNE WALKER

HAYLEY MIDDENDORFF

NICOLE BONFIELD

SUE CURLEY

ANNA CONN

ASSOC PROFESSOR SOL QURASHI

Weddings, Social Media & Photographer

Website Developer & Writer

Strategy & Distribution

Writer

Writer

JOHN CURLEY RLM Accountant

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Writer

Garden Writer

Health & Wellness Writer

Food Writer

Photographer

Writer

Food Writer

Travel Writer

Health & Wellness Writer

The Dusty Lens Creative Media

Tales and Tones Photography

JOHN BALTAKS

Travel Photographer


S U M M E R story name

YOUR LETTERS On behalf of Bland Shire Council, I extend our warmest congratulations to Alex and Elizabeth Tickle on the remarkable milestone of the 50th Golden Spring Edition 2025 of Regional Lifestyle Magazine. This edition is a true celebration of the Eastern Riverina region, beautifully showcasing the regions of Coolamon, Cootamundra-Gundagai, Junee, Temora, and our very own West Wyalong. The official launch in Marrar on September 16 was a wonderful occasion, bringing together communities from across the region to honour our towns, our tourism, and the people who make them special. It was a night to remember, with council representatives joining industry partners and advertisers in appreciation of the stories that connect us. We were especially moved by the feature on West Wyalong and its people. Known far and wide as a town of “Hearts of Gold,” West Wyalong’s spirit and warmth were captured with such authenticity and pride. The economic benefits of this kind of regional storytelling are significant, not only does it attract visitors, but it also highlights the value and vibrancy of small communities that have so much to offer. The success of this edition speaks volumes. It is not just a magazine – it is a celebration of who we are. Thank you to Regional Lifestyle Magazine for the quality storytelling and photography that highlight our communities and inspire others to visit and discover them. On behalf of Bland Shire Council, I sincerely appreciate your dedication to our region and look forward to future opportunities to collaborate in showcasing the heart and soul of our communities. Brian Monaghan Mayor, Bland Shire Council

On behalf of the councils representing Bland Shire, Coolamon Shire, CootamundraGundagai Regional Council, Junee Shire, and Temora Shire, I wish to extend our heartfelt thanks for the outstanding feature on the Eastern Riverina region in your 2025 Spring edition of Regional Lifestyle Magazine. The coverage has had a remarkable impact, not only in showcasing the natural beauty and vibrant communities of our region, but also in driving tangible outcomes. We’ve seen a surge in interest in our region across New South Wales and as far afield as Tasmania and Western Australia purchasing the magazine. This wide reach has translated into increased visitation, with more travellers discovering the charm and hospitality of our towns. The timing couldn’t have been better, aligning perfectly with the promotion of the Canola Trail and the seasonal bloom that paints our landscapes gold.

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Spring is a spectacular time in the Eastern Riverina. It’s when our region truly comes alive – canola fields in full colour, local produce at its peak and communities buzzing with events and activity. Your feature captured this spirit beautifully, offering readers a glimpse into the experiences that await them here. Most importantly, the article celebrated our people – the farmers, artists, business owners, and volunteers who make our shires so special. By telling their stories, you’ve helped amplify the pride we feel in our region and encouraged others to see it through our eyes. We look forward to continuing to work together to promote the Eastern Riverina and invite more Australians to explore all that our region has to offer. David McCann, OAM, OAM (Mil) Mayor, Coolamon Shire Council

We are still in awe of the magazine! I have even sent a copy to the Premier, Chris Minns, as he was impressed with the Riverina on his last visit here. What a quality magazine you produce and hats off to your reporters! The personal stories are impressive and really capture the essence of our beautiful region. Well done, team! Bob Callow Mayor, Junee Shire Council

On behalf of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council, I wish to extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Alex and Elizabeth Tickle on the remarkable milestone of the 50th Golden Spring Edition 2025 of Regional Lifestyle Magazine. This edition is a true celebration of the Eastern Riverina region, with a special focus on the unique communities, landscapes, and people of Cootamundra-Gundagai. The coverage has had a meaningful impact, beautifully showcasing the natural beauty and vibrant communities of our region. Since publication, we have observed increased interest from across New South Wales, with travellers discovering the charm, hospitality, and experiences that make our towns so special. The timing of your feature was particularly impactful, coinciding with the seasonal Canola Trail bloom, which paints large areas of the CGRC region in stunning golden hues. We were especially delighted by the features highlighting towns such as Cootamundra and Gundagai, and the people who give them their unique character – farmers, artists, business owners, and volunteers. Your storytelling captured the spirit, pride, and warmth of our communities and has helped inspire visitors to experience the Eastern Riverina through our eyes.


feedback S U M M E R

The economic and social benefits of this kind of regional storytelling are significant. By celebrating our towns and people, you encourage visitation, support local businesses, and highlight the vibrancy and value of our communities. Thank you to Regional Lifestyle Magazine for your quality storytelling and photography that bring the heart and soul of Cootamundra-Gundagai to life. We look forward to continuing to work together to showcase our region and invite more Australians to explore all that CGRC has to offer. Cr Abb McAlister Mayor, Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council

On behalf of Temora Shire Council, I extend our warmest congratulations to Alex and Elizabeth Tickle on the outstanding achievement of publishing the 50th Golden Spring Edition 2025 of Regional Lifestyle Magazine. This milestone edition is a beautiful tribute to the Eastern Riverina, shining a spotlight on the communities of Coolamon Shire, Cootamundra-Gundagai, Junee Shire, Temora Shire, and our neighbours in West Wyalong. The official launch in Marrar on August 16 was a truly memorable occasion, bringing together people from across the region to celebrate our towns and villages, tourism, and the stories that make us proud. We were especially delighted to see Temora Shire featured

so prominently, alongside our regional partners. The magazine’s storytelling and photography continue to capture the heart and soul of our communities, and this edition is no exception. As mayor of Temora Shire, I know firsthand the value of regional storytelling. It not only strengthens community pride but also drives economic benefits by encouraging visitors to discover the richness of our towns and the warmth of our people. Regional Lifestyle Magazine is more than a publication – it is a celebration of who we are. Thank you for your continued dedication to showcasing the best of regional NSW. We look forward to many more editions that honour and uplift our communities. Rick Firman OAM Mayor, Temora Shire Council

Share your feedback info@lifestylemagazine.net.au Follow Regional LifestyleMagazine Facebook Instagram Facebook “f ” Logo

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RLM 19


S S

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T O W N F E A T U R E Tenterfield

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Tenterfield T O W N F E A T U R E

TENTERFIELD SHIRE COUNCIL FE ATURE Aerial photograph by Tyrone Ryan

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TENTERFIELD SHIRE COU NCI L F E AT U R E

A vibrant district awaits you From the Tenterfield Shire Mayor Widely renowned for having four distinct seasons, Tenterfield shire locals and visitors revel in outstanding vibrant autumn leaf displays, cold winters with frosts and occasional snow, magnificent spring blossoms and mild summers. The vastly changing landscapes across the shire offer a diverse variety of experiences in scenery, adventure and ecotourism. From soaring mountains, volcanic plugs, granite outcrops and balancing rocks to rich farmland in sheltered valleys, tablelands and gentle slopes, gentle creeks to wild rivers and waterfalls, woodlands, and majestic eucalypt forests to rainforests. With such contrasting habitats the shire is home to a huge diversity of wildlife and is a popular birdwatching locale. Platypuses are even found in Tenterfield Creek as it makes its way through town. Tenterfield Shire has many national parks and state forests, with Bald Rock NP being the most popular. Confidence in Tenterfield as a destination has resulted in an increasingly wide variety of accommodation and hospitality options across the shire. The fully sealed Mount Lindesay Rd runs parallel to the Queensland border giving easy access to the attractions of Quoll Headquarters, Thunderbolt’s Hideout, tank traps, Boonoo Boonoo Falls, Bald Rock NP, Cobb and Co Museum and Aloomba Lavender Farm. The Border Mountains Trail is signposted to explore off the main roads in the Liston

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Legume area, and the Bicentennial National Trail runs through the shire. Signature events include the Autumn Festival, Gravel n Granite, Tenterfield Agricultural Show, campdrafts and rodeos, vehicle show and shines, endurance rides and the eisteddfod. With a generous community, and numerous active volunteer organisations, many regular fundraising events are held. The township hosts beautiful parks, covered playgrounds, creek and sculpture walk, museums, art galleries, sporting facilities, theatre and award-winning Youth Precinct and Skate Park. The Angry Bull Trails mountain bike network and international standard pump track will add an exciting energy to the town and surrounding area from early 2026. Charming local villages have unique historical and natural attractions. Agriculture is the economic base of the shire boasting a wide variety of produce reflective of the contrasting landscapes and seasons, providing culinary delights. Tourism and other industries are crucial mainstays to the shire’s economy. One of few growing populations in rural NSW, many people are relocating businesses, retiring, or moving their young families for a lifestyle change with city and coastal conveniences within cooee. Historically, the shire has been home to multiple aboriginal nations. European history is also fascinating with white settlers arriving in 1840. Gazetted in 1851, Tenterfield became

Many people are relocating businesses, retiring, or moving their young families for a lifestyle change with city and coastal conveniences within cooee.

a border Customs town, birthplace or home to many notable characters, and location of important historic events. These include writing the first official campdrafting rules in 1885, Sir Henry Parkes’ Federation speech, Tom Roberts’ paintings, AB “Banjo” Paterson’s wedding, Spanish Flu border closure, and the first official Australian airmail in 1920. Tenterfield shire is a destination to explore and experience the remarkable heritage, natural attractions and untamed adventure, great food and eclectic accommodation, the opportunity to engage in diverse activities, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the region. We look forward to seeing you soon. Cr Bronwyn Petrie, Mayor


Tenterfield T O W N F E A T U R E

Diverse, inviting REGION BECKONS

Tenterfield shire covers an area of 7500sq km, sitting atop the New South Wales-Queensland border at the junction of the New England High Country and Granite Belt. Straddling the Great Dividing Range, it is distinguished by four distinct seasons, warm hospitality, dramatic scenery, numerous national parks and state forests, and a diverse range of attractions. On the foothills of Mount Mackenzie (1287m), Tenterfield is blessed with historic buildings, avenues of trees and lovely parks while the villages and vibrant rural communities of Urbenville, Liston, Legume, Jennings, Mingoola, Torrington, Bolivia, Drake and Tabulam each have their own charm. Situated strategically at the intersection of the New England and Bruxner highways, Tenterfield is within easy driving distance of Brisbane, the NSW North Coast and New England towns and cities. Mount Lindesay Rd provides a pleasurable alternate route for travellers from south-east Queensland. Residents and visitors experience wide-ranging delights from extreme adventure to scenic walks and drives, birdwatching, photography, painting, hiking, motorcycle and mountain bike riding, fishing and fossicking. Then there’s boutique shopping, exploring the endless array of eateries, discovering magnificent views, camping under starry skies or luxuriating in glamorous accommodation. A distinguishing feature of the shire is the multiple Aboriginal nations that call the area home including Bundjalung, Githabul, Kamilaroi, Jukembal, Ngarabal and Wahlubul peoples. Traditional language is still spoken in places and language courses at Connected Learning Centre TAFE. The early 1840s witnessed European settlement with large stations formed across the shire, commonly 100,000 acres. Tenterfield Station was the property on which Tenterfield was gazetted in 1851 and was owned by Sir Stuart Alexander Donaldson who later became the first Premier of New South Wales. Gold discoveries in the 1850s led to booming growth across the region with tin and silver mining and timber getting becoming important industries.

The 1860s onwards saw the erection of substantial buildings including the magnificent post office in 1881. The Tenterfield Heritage Walk-Drive brochure guides visitors to other important buildings such as the Tenterfield Saddler, immortalised by locally born legend Peter Allen, the Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts, where the politician’s 1889 speech urged Australian colonies to unite as one nation. Don’t forget to visit St Stephen’s Church where AB “Banjo” Paterson married local girl Alice Walker in 1903. Centenary Cottage Museum is a must, as is the iconic Tenterfield Railway Station Museum. Mount Mackenzie Lookout provides breathtaking views into the far distance off the scenic Kildare Rd tourist drive. North along the Mount Lindesay Rd you’ll find Quoll Headquarters sanctuary, bushranger Thunderbolt’s Hideout, World War II tank traps, Boonoo Boonoo Falls, and Bald Rock, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest granite monolith with 360-degree views. Ensure Liston Cobb & Co Coach Museum and Aloomba Lavender Farm are on your radar, as well as the nearby Granite Belt wineries. Angry Bull Trails, the extensive mountain bike operation, will open early next year in close proximity to Tenterfield while improved facilities at the FOTA-managed Tenterfield Aerodrome continue attracting fly-in visitors. The shire has been growing in strength while recovering from the challenge of compounding natural disasters and has a positive vibe with flourishing agricultural and tourism enterprises, and emerging new industries. RLM Words: Supplied Images: Sera J Wright and Lisa Tolley

ABOVE: There are many forms of transport available for you to explore the Tenterfield shire; the high country is an absolute picture in every season; community and civic pride is evident in the well-kept streets and buildings in the town; take a drive in any direction and you’ll find landscape so rugged and beautiful, it takes your breath away.

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T O W N F E A T U R E Tenterfield

Light and shade Have camera – will travel – why not? That appears to be the mantra of Tenterfield-based photographer and videographer Tyrone Ryan. Assigned to take photos for RLM’s Tenterfield feature, Tyrone enjoyed himself so much he decided to attend the launch of the Spring 2025 edition in Coolamon. This was a round trip of almost 2000km. This is one young man who’s dedicated to his craft. It was Tyrone’s grandfather who first introduced him to the world of photography. The gift of a Canon Power Shot camera as a child fuelled his interest. “I was always into technology – and I soon learned the power of the camera for freezing a moment in time,” Tyrone says. “Granddad gave me an insight into his world and I just went from there, observing people and using my little point-and-shoot camera to capture anything that grabbed my attention.

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“I found it was a great way I could connect with people.” In his final high school years, Tyrone was studying film and TV, and his photographic interest went hand-in-hand with those studies. When he became serious about photography, Tyrone upgraded to a Nikon DSLR kit – and he was off and running. >

FACING PAGE: Trees silhouetted against a soft, dreamy, spring morning sunrise; photographer and videographer Tyrone Ryan loves his job; two musk lorikeets share a tree hollow; a small native antechinus feasting on grevilleas. THIS PAGE: A large group of galahs taking flight at the end of winter.


Tenterfield T O W N F E A T U R E

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T O W N F E A T U R E Tenterfield

He began taking portrait shots of mates at school and landscapes, as well as endless family photos. “Coming from a large European family, there was always an event every other month, so I had plenty of practise in those early days,” he recalls. Twenty-nine-year-old Tyrone has managed to combine his love of filmmaking and photography, turning it into a career with his business, The Dusty Lens Creative Media. “An inspired film buff, I always had a deep love of photography,” he says. “I would make home movies and put scrapbooks together, editing and learning as I went along.

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“By taking shots of friends in high school, I made connections and often obtained work through their business connections. You never know where a shoot will lead.” He enjoys the connection with his subjects and tends to make every shoot fun and casual, which in turns puts his subjects at ease. > FACING PAGE: Expansive waterfall cascading from Boonoo Boonoo National Park; eastern spinebill savouring grevillea nectar; autumnal colours in a Tenterfield street; a rocky hillside. ABOVE: A cow grazing in a grassy field; yellow-faced honeyeater; mother and baby wallaby pose for the camera.


Tenterfield T O W N F E A T U R E

TENTERFIELD RLM 29


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#51 Regional Lifestyle | Summer 2025 by Regional Lifestyle Magazine - Issuu