http://www.abc.net.au/science/birds/

June 10 2011

Sure is nippy here at the moment!!! Reports are that we are not the only ones feeling the wrath of an extreme cold front but that only makes the log fires more appealing and I am sure our Queen's Birthday long weekend guests will enjoy that aspect of their stay at Yeranda and Noonameena. Kev and I have spent considerable time this week sourcing, log splitting and delivering wood to each place. A seasonal chore! Winter bookings seem to be filling up so if you are wanting to visit I suggest you make contact very soon.

June 2 2011

The most magical walk down to Cow's Head creek just now . The creek is running beautifully and so peaceful there. Here are some photos to whet your appetite to make a booking soon!

A very showy clump of bracket fungi seen too.

May 18th 2011

Kalimna guests currently staying had a great time yesterday when they took their kayaks and paddled down the Williams river from the bridge on the Fosterton loop to the main bridge in Dungog...took them 6 hours and a few sets of rapids but with the river level a little on the low side the trip was slower than expected. Kev went with them to drop off point and then drove their vehicle on to near the  Dungog bridge where I met him. Today they are off for an hour and a half horse ride...oh, dear...to be young again!! But there are plenty of soft options for guests not so bursting with energy...some easy walks or pleasant forest drives OR just enjoying the camp fire under the stars.

May 4th 2011

Oh, to have been present at Noonameena a couple of days ago when two white breasted sea eagles swooped down in front of the house to grab a dead rabbit a guest had placed there ...on my suggestion to perhaps lure one of the three local wedge tailed eagles in for a free feed. It is obvious that such "feeding of the local wildlife" could see a great set up for a future photo opportunity!

April 18th 2011

Today will see the celebration of our 51st Sneakaway Bush Wedding...to be held at Elouera with the wedding being a true elopement. The couple have travelled all the way from Crookwell to make their vows at Yeranda. Great fun to trick their family and friends and to start this new chapter in their lives at such a nice place!

April 14th 2011

2nd e-newsletter went out this week with lots of info on the sale of Yeranda (that does not mean we HAVE sold, just that we wish to!!) A bit different competition with a prize of a years subscription with Australian Geographic...so in keeping with our eco destination here at Yeranda.

Today we had a phone connected at Noonameena ...it is an incoming calls only line but guests can at least leave the number with family members incase of emergencies and then turn off the mobile to save annoying calls from the boss saying he needs info on some particular thing!!!! The number is 02 49921338

March 30 2011 ...our 50th Sneakaway Bush Wedding has been celebrated! Even better was that the weather held perfectly...a bonus for taking the photographs!

March 29 2011

mmmmm.... I wonder what the weather is going to be like at 5:30pm today? We will be celebrating our 50th Sneakaway Bush Wedding here. Kalimna is to be the venue for what started out as a quiet "bride and groom  only " affair with Kev and Ros as witnesses but has changed to close family and friends to be in attendance. Hopefully it won't be pouring rain but if it is..well, we WILL see the wedding in by the log fire perhaps or on the verandah. Nothing can stop the show going on!

March 24 2011

Dungog Rodeo this  weekend and also perhaps of interest to some I noticed in The Chronicle this week that "on August 13 2011 at the Dungog Railway station the Dungog Historical Society is going to celebrate and remember  the coming of rail. Have you ever wondered about the benefits our railway systems brought to the States in Australia? Before the highways were in any state to take large volumes of trade, rail transport was the quickest and the best...cattle, milk, timber, grain and many other items...." Think about joining in this small country town celebration....make a booking for accommodation NOW!

March 20th 2011

In keeping with many businesses Yeranda is about to embark on an electronic newsletter. The aim is to keep in contact with past and prospective guests...those who are regular visitors or the folk who have shown interest and for some reason not booked. The newsletter will keep you abreast of news and of specials which might see past and new guests booking a break away. We are all bombarded with such things and often feel the need to hit the unsubscribe button...this newsletter will not be sent out often enough to be an annoyance...hopefully just once a month or when there is a most newsworthy event or item so we are hoping you will enjoy it ,  see what is on offer and consider a visit to the beautiful Barrington Tops area. This cooler time of the year is simply perfect. This Tuesday March 22 will see the launch of Newsletter number 1....we hope you approve and would love some feedback on how it looks etc.

March 17th

The time has slipped away...GP Stakes was fantastic and as well as raising around $40,000 for the cause we all had heaps of fun. Our loyal guest and cameraman did a great job of taking footage for a video he has completed to help the awareness process...we are most grateful.

Main Creek copped the wrath of mother nature mid afternoon Match 1st when a mini cyclone swept thru. A lot of branches and trees down but fortunately for us no damage to infrastructure. A walk over to "the big Sydney blue gum" told me one would not have wanted to be out there during the fury...a large limb of the old tree is down and many more in that area. Worst hit was along the Cow's Head creek embankment and I have cringed at the thought of what it might be like right down to the creek ...must arm myself with camera and investigate very soon...it will be a reminder of the strength of nature and how little we can do about it.

February 27th 2011

Today we are participating in the  GP Stakes...an initiative to raise funds locally to enlist the help of a specialist consulting group to try and "lure" additional doctor /s to our area. Dungog is desperate for extra GPs and what better little town could there be for either a young doctor OR an older one who wants to spend the last chapter of his /her working life in a wonderful rural area close to major hospitals and specialising doctors. PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!!! If I survive playing soccer and touch football I will later report on the proceedings!!!

February 14 2011

I wonder why extreme weather events always see me scurrying to my NEWS section? Perhaps 'cause there is little to do outside when it is pouring rain!!! Oh, how welcome this drenching is as everything had dried out so much. Well over 30mm to now and still falling...love it and the bush loves it too. Whilst the grass at Noonameena will jump out of the ground I do find mowing rather therapeutic...time to think whilst performing what is a rather mindless chore. Recently took Kalimna guests down to Cow's Head creek, up the creek system and beyond with an exciting sighting of a masked owl. These are the sorts of thrills that make me grateful to still be here at Yeranda...then again we would love for someone to come along and make us an offer on the title we have for sale along with our house, Kalimna and Pindari. It is not in the hands of agents right now so please let any interested friends know if they are looking for that special tree change!

 January 15 2011

oh, dear ...i wish there was an Adult Ed course in Face Book!!! Every man and his dog seems able to get the best out of FB except Ros!!!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Yeranda-at-Barrington-Tops/335438580581

I am trying to set up a sort of Yeranda FB site but presume I need to "invite" my guests to be part of this. Maybe not...perhaps you can use the above address to come on board. Am sure some kind person will let me know!!!

Well into the 2011 now and here we are trying to do our tiny bit for the flood victims...bookings made at Elouera by 2 or 3 couples for stays during February and March will see us donating 50% to the flood Relief Fund.

December 20 2010.

Christmas fast approaching and the commercial world going crazy!!! Guests currently in at Yeranda are enjoying the peace and quiet and also the unseasonally cool conditions. The title of land (70 acres) which includes our house, shedding, cellar, Kalimna and Pindari remain quietly FOR SALE. If someone reads this news and wishes to make contact with Ros and Kev be assured we would be more than happy to show you what we have here and how you too could enjoy the amazing "tree change" we made from 1990 and all about the tourism industry from 1996 til present day. 2010 has been a quieter year for Ros and Kev but from all accounts this is how it has been for many businesses. Enjoy a safe and happy holiday time and we look forward to welcoming you to Yeranda in 2011.

December 7 2010

A bush walk yesterday saw a white throated nightjar flushing and hence revealing a single beautiful egg. There really only seems to be one pair of nightjars around the property which leads me to believe that the chick mentioned in an earlier post (nov 20) must have met with a sad fate for an adult to be again sitting. "Better luck this time beautiful bird"! Mind you, how they ever manage to escape goannas, snakes and other marauding birds I will never know...the strength of camouflage is not THAT good!!!

November 21 2010

Did you know that 2011 is The International Year of Forests?  This will add  to the importance of celebrating the dry sclerophyll forests and rain forest gullies which make up the Yeranda property and adjoining State Forests, Nature Reserves and nearby National Parks. How fortunate are we to be able to live in this environment? Not only to live here but to have set this property up so it can be shared with others!

November 20 2010

Another month slips by and discussions about the new catch phrase of "slow tourism" and how Yeranda certainly qualifies for such a tag. No, not slow to book! Slow down the experience; go gently, don't rush your visit but enjoy what there is to offer in a wonderful area where around every bend you are likely to see something different in nature. This past month has been one of the best with the safe hatching of a white throated night jar chick close to Pindari cottage. The patient adult sat on the single egg for about a month and half. He/she blending in so well with the surroundings that one was hard pushed to notice the bird. Nature is amazing! With so many acres to explore and different types of vegetation (dry sclerophyll forest and rainforest) any visitor can expect to find some thing to photograph or admire! If you are not a nature fanatic then try "slow tourism" by just sitting quietly ,reading a book, doing a jigsaw on the purpose built jigsaw board or simply listening to your favourite music CD...no phones to interrupt, sirens wailing or the likes.

We are looking at some special summer deals so get in touch soon!

October 26th 2010

We thank the interested guests who have been enquiring about our "sold or not sold" situation! The latter still remains the case but hopefully a forthcoming newspaper campaign might alter things. We are being told it is not a good time to sell but in my opinion there has never been a better time to buy if what one was looking for was a Yeranda style property....there are not too many places just like this one with craftsman built dwellings and in a setting as appealing. It will happen and then I will wonder why I was not more relaxed like Kev...but then that is the story of our lives!!

The  56 solar panels at Noonameena  have had their first full four weeks of drinking up the solar power and feeding back in to the grid which saw a total of 1060 kW of electricity transferred. If only every property with a clear area to the north could install a similar system we might be able to make an impression on the need to conventionally produce electricity.

We are offering some good specials right now as we try to encourage guests to consider a break before Christmas...get away from the rush and bustle...come to Yeranda or Noonameena for some fair dinkum relaxation!

September 25th 2010.

Yesterday saw electricity flowing back in to the grid from Noonameena's solar panels...what a relief after months of waiting for the installation that now  the electricity meter is showing a credit to us !! Noonameena looks great right now with new spring growth. This afternoon we have another Sneakaway Bush Wedding (the 48th we have hosted). This time at Elouera and a true elopement...just the bride and groom, Kev and Ros and the celebrant. It is a brilliant sunny day with the bride busily getting ready right now. It is fun to share these special times.

August 25th 2010

Ros and Kev are about to start a relationship with local agents Dillons and Sons in an effort to achieve that aim to sell part of Yeranda and commence semi retirement! Many things happening right now as they also dwell on the long awaited installation of their 10 KW solar system at Noonameena. This 56 panel  ground mounted array will feed directly back in to the electricity grid. With that spacious front paddock it seemed too good an area NOT to make use of! With a bit of luck this MIGHT happen next week. Watch for updates!

August 6th 2010

Seems impossible that so much time has slipped by but here we still are happily enjoying Yeranda and Noonameena stays waiting!!! Main reason for this entry is to offer a Spring Super special to our guests. As follows and valid til October 31...

2 nights / 2 persons in either Kalimna or Pindari with guests supplying their own qs sheets and towels $250

4 nights / 2 persons in either Kalimna or Pindari and as above conditions $350

3 nights in Elouera for two couples (supplying own towels / sheets will be supplied) $780

Check VACANCIES at www.yeranda.com.au

June 22 2010

Oh, that positive last entry!! It has been a difficult month trying to move right along however all is not grim as many bookings have been made and we truly are fortunate to be marking time til semi retirement here in this wonderful area. Currently we have had a couple of rainy days but our total rainfall for 2010 is far below the bumper year we had 2009. All is green and the fungi flourishes! Kev is off having a well earned break away in Victoria so Ros has been busily looking after guests and as mentioned, taking more bookings. Never a dull moment. School holidays are close so the area will be a buzz with families or teachers taking a break...they will find Dungog and the surrounding villages worth a visit but more especially the beautiful forest areas where for a silent pause of just a couple of minutes one can delight in hearing the urgent calls of male lyrebirds as they announce their presence to the female lyrebirds.

May 23 2010

This section has been sadly neglected...deliberately, as Ros and Kev. were about to make THE big announcement that Yeranda had SOLD however they now know the absolute truth in that old saying about the fat lady singing!!!! 12 exciting days after accepting an offer the sale fell thru...how disappointing for not only Ros and Kev but for the Sydney couple who had not even got to see Cows Head creek far less had the pleasure of living in this wonderful area, meeting lots of great guests and de-stressing the pain of city living! So it is back to the drawing board with even more determination to, in the mean time look after our guests , keep taking bookings and enjoying living at Yeranda for a while longer...some of us have a tough life, eh!!!

Dungog Film Festival this coming weekend...perhaps a star (let) will see the ad in the Real Estate agents window and want to buy a little bit of paradise!!!

March 10 2010.

After some months of promoting Yeranda as being for sale privately we have finally handed it over to a local agent to let the experts see what they can do for us!!! Watch this space for news...soon???????

January 30 2010

Much and all as I enjoy those "sounds of summer" it is nice to report that the bumper crop of cicadas has passed its prime! The birds have feasted, our ear drums have been walloped and nature continues its amazing cycle!

January 16 2010

Just a mention in case prospective guests plan to utilise a GPS gadget to reach Yeranda...recent guests found out the hard way...a trip at least twice as long as necessary around through the forest was how their  fancy new GPS took them. Please use the map on our brochure or from website to direct you to Yeranda

January 4 2010

It is great to see another eatery in Dungog...this time we see Cafe Dungog opened by new Main Creek resident, Stephen Orr (Steve is our northern neighbour at Noonameena) Any one who has knowledge of the Narrabeen area will be familiar with BK s Cafe there which is one of Steve's eateries. He is experienced  in this industry and from what we had heard the tucker is great.

Kev and I just sampled a coffee...excellent!!! We hope our guests will call by and enjoy what Steve is offering for breakfasts and lunches; do let him know you are visiting our area and am sure he will look after you well.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR GUESTS AND FRIENDS.
January 1 2010

Happily we pass on the news that Yeranda recorded the second highest annual rainfall since we began our records (just 50 mm less than in 2001) with 1510mm; these records commenced 20 years ago so are but a small blip in history! With so much of NSW  having suffered severe drought during 2009  we feel very fortunate indeed. There have only been three years with under 1000mm of rain so it is a great area to live if one wants water assured.

We continue to enjoy our industry with the promise of 2010 being to catch up with past guests who have already made forward bookings and we  wish you all a particularly prosperous, healthy and happy year ahead.

November 5 2009

Have never heard the white throated nightjar so vocal...all hours of the night it is calling loudly and what a great call it is! Scarlet honey eaters are feeding nearby and the channel billed cuckoo must be checking out an unsuspecting currawongs nest in preparation for laying an egg for the poor currawong to incubate and consequently rear the  off spring. A real opportunist is this visitor! Had some reasonable rains during October but being greedy we are yearning for more. The hilly terrain sees moisture disappearing fast so we are always wanting more and more rain.

October 19 2009

Well, friends and past guests Kev and Ros are still well entrenched in running Yeranda but with a couple of heartening "nibbles"...always knew it would not happen over night! We are in no hurry...this property needs to be purchased by people who will love it as much as we do and enjoy sharing it with others who enjoy nature and the bush.

What an interesting season it has been ... what with the fireflies flashing their little lights (in late September)  for one and all to see on dusk even PRE rain in early October. I have never observed this behaviour during dry times before so was quite surprised. Birds have been very active and the local brush turkey has been seen quietly scratching in leaf litter and acting like he owns the place.

September 18 2009

Amazing nature report by recent guests to Yeranda.

regular bush walkers to spots close to and in Newcastle recently observed a small bird of prey with an eastern rosella in it's talons. the bird was on the edge of a creek and as the captured rosella struggled the captor walked in to the water and deliberately held the rosella under water until it ceased to move! Wading on thru the creek it commenced it's tasty feed only to be harassed by first, noisy miners and then ravens. The latter won the day as the bird of prey gave in to their attacks! Nature is quite amazing.

The same guests observed fire flies at Pindari which is most unusual as they normally are only seen after rainfall and there is certainly a distinct lacking of precipitation at present.

August 9 2009

The facelift for the pergola between the main house and the cellar is as good as completed....one of the jobs which Ros and Kev wanted to achieve before actually placing property on the open market! The work involved has had to fit in with perhaps their busiest time of the year. July saw both Kalimna and Pindari scoring 100% occupancy...lots of people visiting; many of whom had been numerous times before..."it is just like coming home" was the comment by more than one lot of guests. It is always nice to receive such positive and friendly feed back.

Even before August the weather seemed distinctly spring like and the birds are certainly gearing up for their busy season...a male superb blue wren is showing definite signs of attaining his showy breeding plumage with in the next week and the winter calls of the male lyre bird have eased as his job for the year is done! Lyre bird chicks will have hatched. Last night Ros went outside with a torch and was quite amazed to see a large hare loping down the front track! It would be many years since she has seen one here.

June 18 2009

Many of our regular guests are aware that the time is near for Ros and Kev. to start and relax a little and to this end the 70 acre title of land which includes our home, Kalimna and Pindari is available for purchase as an on going nature based tourism business. The 13 plus years of being in this industry has been most enjoyable and  Yeranda at Barrington Tops has developed into a well recognised and  sustainable business. It has  high occupancy rates and is an ideal venture  for a  couple who might be keen to escape the rat race and enjoy a life in the bush....the REAL "tree change" we hear about .

Any one who has visited Yeranda is aware of the standard of the buildings which Kev and Ros built themselves. The octagonal, post and beam house is of timber and rock construction with a mezzanine level bedroom and second bedroom downstairs. A pantry that most house wives yearn for and open living, dining and kitchen area. Close to the house there is a cellar / come fire shelter safely slotted into the side of the embankment; carport, extensive workshop and bunkhouse with "ensuite", combustion stove etc. This is where Kev and Ros lived during the 4 year construction of their house and could be even more "tricked up" to be used as a granny flat. (currently used by Kev as a music area...regular "jam sessions" are held to the delight of neighbours????)

Tracks from road to house and both cottages have recently been re gravelled. Figures and price are available for any genuine interested party upon inspection of the property. This can be arranged and of course needs to work in with guests bookings. Protecting guests privacy will remain paramount to the running of this business as anyone can surely understand. It should be noted that a Voluntary Conservation Agreement is on the title of this property which protects it in perpetuity. No land rates are payable to the local Shire.

ENQUIRIES WELCOME

May 23rd 2009

Following the huge rains in SE Queensland and Northern NSW our area has also been scoring plenty of rain with our total for 2009 now nudging up towards 900mm. Kev and Ros recently purchased an hydraulically operated log splitter...now why wasn't it purchased 15 years ago?!! This has to be the most labour saving outfit ever and with the amount of fire wood required at Yeranda and Noonameena it is being touted as a BEST purchase ever!

Dungog Film Festival is ready to run next weekend with promise of an inundation of visitors to our area. Let's hope that is the only inundation but surely the weather will have cleared by then! The town has really got behind this years (the third festival) event with some 55 households opening up their homes to "home host"...let's hope it works out to be ideal for all concerned. Yeranda and Noonameena have a mix of visitors staying from a group of journalists and representatives from Tourism NSW to the group who designed the stunning poster to promote this years festival. More importantly perhaps are regular guests who plan to attend. This couple are here for their 13th annual visit to celebrate their wedding anniversary and have invited interstate friends to come stay at Yeranda and attend the festival...how can we top that?!!

Next week on 2UE Newcastle there will be a Barrington Tops promotion ...Yeranda is involved and there will be a giveaway prize for a competition. Tune in for a chance to win a night in Elouera!!

May 7 2009

Ros and Kev have taken delivery of an excellent resource for anyone wishing to bush walk in the Hunter Region. "20 Great Hunter Region Walks" was a project taken on personally by Martin and Jan Fallding of Callicoma Hill Eco Cabins. Not only having experienced  each of the described walks they have documented them in lay persons terms and had printed  a handy map which is now available for purchase at Yeranda for $5. If you wish to purchase ahead of visiting Ros is happy to mail off a copy upon direct deposit of $6 to the Yeranda account (just email Ros for banking information)

  May 1 2009

Well, what a great time of the year at Yeranda...the hills and gullies are resounding with the wonderful call of the male lyrebird and speaking of birds.,..last weekends guests in Pindari had a magical sighting of a female Paradise rifle bird. Doesn't get much better than that!

I attended a seminar in Maitland yesterday about Trading in Turbulent Times...very interesting and the information gained substantiated our thoughts that we are well positioned to weather the storm. Yeranda is a destination that will be sought when people want to have some relaxation and peace; get back to nature and what counts most. Time to just converse without the interruption of phone or TV. The valley stays green and lush and our recent visit to Victoria for our High School Centenary makes us so grateful for good rainfall. It was not much better than a dust bowl (there has been rain there since we returned and we are claiming we took it with us!)

Keep in mind our vouchers, curry meals and be sure to book soon!

April 2 2009

Following on from news below ...we have had 227 mm in past week which is such a bonus after having planted 730 new little trees at Noonameena. I was considering watering again to be sure they would establish in the still warm soil before the cooler weather moves in but have been saved that huge chore. Just hope they don't DROWN!!!

We are taking bookings for future dates and happy with the positive feed back by these people who are wanting to take breaks closer to Sydney, Newcastle and the Central Coast. Tariffs are still considered exceptional and many are just wanting that peaceful, relaxing break away with out the interruption of other people. Guest book entries continue to praise the seclusion of our cottages and of Noonameena. Why do we not have a section for testimonials ? Naaa...you need to come and visit and read the guest books for yourselves...much more fun than reading it on the web!

March 8th

Well, didn't February just turn out to be the best rainfall!!! Over 370mm recorded here and the new growth on young trees and shrubs I planted last year is amazing. Also a bonus for current plantings I am doing as the soil is perfect. Today  at Noonameena I found one of the cutest little animals ever....a tiny Common Dunnart. What a beauty...long pointy nose, huge black eyes and soft grey fur. We are so fortunate to have these sorts of animals...being nocturnal of course they are rarely seen... this one was amongst some fire wood we brought home in the trailer.

Yeranda got a mention in the Travel and Leisure magazines  March edition...we are always grateful for any promotion !!

February 13th

Yeranda has received 37.8 mm of much wanted and glorious rain in the past 2 days after a dry spell which is most unusual for this area at this time of the year. Our hearts go out to family and friends in Victoria who have been directly affected by the tragic bush fires...so many people and so very sad.

February 7 2009

For those who know of Kev's passion for his guitars and music you will understand his excitement when a recent booking was taken for a singer songwriter to stay in Elouera for four nights. Much conjecture as to whether the "Beccy" could possibly be  one Beccy Cole...well, there you go...indeed Elouera has proven a secluded haven for this acclaimed musician and she assures us she is pleased with what she has written whilst staying in Elouera. We wish her luck with this new album and know she will continue to entertain her many fans all over Australia.

Sneakaway Bush Weddings are hotting up again and Ros hopes to attend a Bridal Fair in East Maitland on February 22 to further promote this special business. Whilst the economic squeeze is on couples  will not refrain from marrying so let's hope the packages we offer will be perfect for those looking for a very special day but at a fraction of the cost of conventional weddings.

December 24 2008

Last minute Christmas Greetings to all our former guests who have visited Yeranda and Noonameena this year and in the past as well. As 2009 looms near we look forward to entering our 14th year in this exciting industry...it is still as much of a thrill to share Yeranda with others as it was when we first opened Kalimna. We could not speak highly enough about the pleasures of being part of this industry...we meet so many interesting people who quickly become good friends as they return time and again to enjoy the privacy and seclusion...beats working in an office!!!!

December 14 2008

Join those who have taken advantage of the  Yeranda Christmas Spirit and ordered vouchers for their family /friends and now do not have to pay until the recipient makes their booking! We have even had one former guest buying a voucher for $100...well, wouldn't you like your tariff reduced by that amount!!!! People are going to still be wanting breaks away even in tough economic times ....infact they will probably want a change of scenery even more than usual!!! Make the arrangements SOON so you have a voucher card to give your loved one at Christmas.

November 8 2008

Have had a thought about Christmas Gift Vouchers....some people buy these vouchers and then the recipients, for what ever reason, forget to book or make use of voucher (they could give it away!) This year I plan to offer the following...we will send on to you a voucher card for you to give to family or friends BUT no money needs to be paid until they select dates. Once the recipient contacts us with ideal dates we would expect full payment with in 7 days...how does this sound to you?!!! Each year we have sold more and more vouchers...such an easy gift so do think about this option and act on it straight away.

November 3 2008

Nothing thrills Ros more than a GREAT nature sighting and to share this is even better. Yesterday morning early whilst walking back from Nalleeghee Creek there was a bit of a scuffle in the grass nearby...not a wallaby BUT...a koala which quickly scuttled up a dead casuarina. Of course that is pretty good but on her back was a juvenile so Ros' day was made and having her brand new Canon 50D on hand...well, what an opportunity (the fact that it had the macro lens attached did not deter the excited bush woman...any pic is better than none when it is a koala!!!) 

October 28 2008

Today has seen the first of the requests for a Yeranda voucher for a Christmas present. What better way to tell some close family members or friends that you care by  sharing your little bush secret with them!!! Gosh, if Yeranda is still a secret in its 13th year of operation then we have had a steady build up!!!! Perhaps you can get siblings to put in with you to shout  mum and dad a stay here. It is still some weeks til Christmas so with the ease of net transfer you can even "lay by" a voucher ...lots of option. Just don't leave it to be too close to December 25. Keep in mind no matter how serious the economic doom and gloom you are only young once so for the romantics...go for it! For the oldies come and enjoy a wonderful peaceful stay in the bush or for family groups consider a get together at Noonameena.

October 12 2008,

We have been in awe of the number of visits to www.yeranda.com.au since the Sydney Weekender show last Saturday. Hopefully the hundreds of visitors have placed the site into their FAVOURITES file!

September 27 2008

Next Saturday, October 4, Yeranda will be shown (although I am sure, briefly) on Channel 7's Sydney Weekender Show... some time between 5:30 and 6pm. It will be interesting to monitor the response from such exposure and to encourage visitors there will be some specials offered ...you will need to check SPECIALS closer to October 4. The plan is to target certain dates which are currently available...this may suit a birthday or anniversary...be sure to check it out!

September 25 2008

Anyone who has chatted with Ros will be aware she is a nature fanatic and her latest little gadget assures this is so. A "black torch" or one that shines UV light from tiny  LEDs reveals some exciting creatures at night. The main aim of purchase was to locate scorpions which fluoresce under UV light. The long awaited torch arrived in yesterdays mail and Ros could hardly wait til dark! Not a scorpion scurried in view however she was astounded by the dozens of millipedes that made a dazzling display on the embankment behind the house! Tonight an attempt will be made to photograph these critters! Another interesting observation was a lichen that glowed a bright orange colour! One can but wonder what else lurks in the rainforest gullies that may fluoresce under UV!!!! Maybe the UV light source will attract the very soon to arrive fireflies!!! Updates on NEWS soon!

September 12 2008

Kevin and Ros attended the 2008 Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards and scored a "Highly Commended" in the category of ACCOMMODATION. Not the same as a win but it is recognition of our business!

September 7 2008

Thinking of eloping? Check our special offer for Valentines Day 2009. We can only only book this offer once so be quick!!!

September 2 2008

Spring sure has sprung here at Yeranda and at Noonameena...glorious sunny days and just cool enough nights to snuggle under the doona. Last Wednesdays filming went off well and now the wait to hear when the clip will go to air. All four fellows were terrific...so good with their individual jobs and very conscientious. We could not have wished for better. Bookings have been fast and furious this past week for some unknown reason and that is with out the extra promotion of TV exposure! 

August 26  2008. 

Tomorrow Channel 7 crew to arrive...the Presenter, Pete Wells and the Producer, camera man and sounds man...all excitement for Ros and Kev. and a busy day ahead here ....wallaby droppings need removing from lawn at Kalimna, outdoor loo glass to be polished...all the things one would do when a TV team is about to arrive!

August 14 2008

Two Sneakaway Bush Weddings last week with the second one seeing us cog up a total of 30 such happy events...how fortunate we are to share such exciting occasions! We even have one set for Valentines Day 09 and would love to package up a second one for that day as well...a romantic theme...heart shaped wedding cake, red roses ...keep it in mind if you are thinking about an intimate, elopement wedding!!!

It appears Yeranda has struck it lucky as Channel 7s Sydney Weekender Show saw our website and wants to come visit in a couple of weeks time! As small tourism operators such opportunities do not come along often so we are looking forward to this chance to hopefully show Kalimna and Noonameena to a wide audience. These are the two cottages they wish to feature...the small, romantic cottage versus the large homestead which is suitable for family getaways and for large groups. 

Will let former guests know by email when the clip will be shown and will note it here in NEWS!

July 13 2008

Winter is certainly with us ...yesterday morning Yeranda recorded an over night low of just 4C (we have never recorded a frost here which we attribute to the dense bush and east facing aspect) The winter chore of sourcing fire wood for the cottage heaters and outside fires is one of the main jobs  and we are always grateful for environmental consciences to come to the fore with many guests being aware that the heaters need to be operated as per the directions. A cosy fire is welcomed by all guests. 

The male lyre birds are calling loudly and time must be found to check out last years nesting site to see if the same female is making use of that perfect safe spot. 

The curry meals are going great guns and many guests have not only availed themselves of this offer but have purchased some of the Yeranda chutneys....an interesting selection of date and banana, lemon and mustard seed, pear, ginger and sultana plus apricot and mint.

Sneakaway Bush Weddings are still appealing to quite a few with bookings well ahead in to 2009. 

Retirement does beckon but that is all another story....

May 18 2008,

Last night we  attended the Dungog and District Chamber of Commerce Business Awards night. We  were thrilled to be named  the winners of the Tourism and Hospitality category with  a beautiful trophy being  received. Recognition of how, with effort and passion,  small businesses can be successful in an industry which is top heavy with BIG players! 

It has been a good week at Yeranda with our first lot of guests utilising our curry meals and the report was , I quote,  "curries spectacular, rice perfect" Two more bookings are indulging in curries this week so our new option for guests is ON IT'S WAY!!!!!

 May 5 2008

We are delighted to now offer you an option of some locally prepared foods to not only give you a night off but to share with you what we see as wonderful country food. This is offered merely as an option but those who have tried Amorelle's curries and Irma's tasty Italian tucker see it as a privilege to indulge in such delectable food in pleasant surrounds. Many of our guests have said they enjoy the well set out cottage kitchens so are happy to cook their own food but for those wanting a break or to just be able to have a lovely meal when they arrive after dark on a Friday night...well... just get that order in to us. Check the SPECIALS section of our web site now!

April 18 2008

Most folks say they do not know where the time has gone however since February I am well aware of where it has gone for us! Kevin and I have worked diligently on full filling the requirements of our Catchment Management Authority Grant at Noonameena...an ambitious project to embark on whilst busily looking after the three cottages here at Yeranda plus Noonameena homestead. The project has involved quite a lot of new fencing which now sees an expansion of the dedicated riparian area along Carowiry creek, the planting of many banksias in an area now known as the "banksia grove" and 80 hours of hard labour eradicating lantana from areas adjacent to the creek. It was with a sense of relief that the project was completed this week and a the field officer from CMA inspected what we had done. (as finished as one might be when lantana seed remains viable for 10 years!!!! Plenty of follow up work required for the duration of our ownership of Noonameena I should think!!) The tourism season has busied up and we look forward to seeing  many of our regular guests and also welcoming lots of people who are new to Yeranda and Noonameena.

February 13 2008

Summer seems to have passed us by; just lots of rain resulting in the bush being greener than ever and the creeks rushing along  more rapidly  than usual! When so many parts of Australia have suffered severe drought it is a privilege to live in an area where there we have not been affected. Last weekend we hosted our 27th Sneakaway Bush Wedding but it was our first held at Noonameena. It rained all week leading up to Mary and Tony's special day and even on the morning of the wedding it dawned drizzly and  misty...the ceremony was held on the spacious north veranda and as it finished the sun broke through ...perfect! Already we are seeing an increase in requests for bookings for the cooler time of the year with winter weekends filling fast...don't leave it too late to secure a cottage for May, June , July...book now!

  November 14

Solve your Christmas gift worries with a  voucher for a short stay at Yeranda for those who are hard to buy for....maybe your parents who would love a peaceful couple of nights in Kalimna or Pindari....$260 for two nights. For those of you who have stayed with us over our 11 and  a half years in business you will know what a great retreat it is. Let your relatives or friends experience a true bush escape but with home comforts as well....they will enjoy the out door shower at any time or the cosy log fire when the weather cools off once more. Perhaps instead of gifts this year you could organise a family get together at Noonameena ...could be a fun annual gathering!!! 

October 18.

Do any of you have a Hewlett Packard 6 L printer? Mine is now defunct but have been left with an almost new toner cartridge. (cost over $100 ) I do not plan to dump it but am happy for it to go to a new home available to the first person who makes a booking and mentions this offer.

September 2 2007

Noonameena now has a dedicated outdoors camp fire area and this weekend saw the christening of it by a family group who spoke enthusiastically of all the attributes of this home away from home. Ros can only praise the view of the moon rising from behind the Bulga range...she was able to enjoy the total eclipse there last Tuesday night. It was a magical experience and for those who feel they would enjoy moonrise at Noonameena be sure to check the VACANCIES section for the following dates...

Full moon dates for  2008

January 22, February 21, March 22, April 20, May 20, June 19,July 18, August 17, September 15, October 15, November 13, December 13. 

 The most stunning aspect is certainly from the eastern deck at Noonameena however Kalimna is also a great cottage to be in at full moon....do consider this experience and book ahead.

August 12 2007

Noonameena continues to take good bookings and is already proving to be a wonderful addition to the three Yeranda cottages. For us it is a great opportunity to encourage groups /families to take advantage of such amazing spacious surrounds. Kev has completed a great little mini deck out from the main eastern deck and a suggestion by one son that it could be "a very small stage for old rockers" conjures up Kev in his retirement strumming away to the passing parade of eastern greys and red necked wallabies! The addition of two "Kev crafted" toddlers beds sees little people well catered for...they love their cot sized beds! 

Spring seems to be here early with birds and bees all very active. This year we would like to see November bookings increase as it has been a traditional quiet month locally. We aim to email our regular guests some "encouragement" to book then ...if you are looking at this website for the first time do email us for more information on what we might offer for that time should it seem to be of interest.

July 10th 2007.

Elouera guests this past week sighted a female lyre bird along Cabbage Tree road...whilst bird life is usually fairly quiet at this time of the year it was an excellent sighting for our school teacher / Sydney guests during their fourth annual visit to Yeranda..."a high light of our stay"

June 24 2007

Winter is certainly with us with good snow falls way up on the Tops...a long drive from Yeranda but if photos I have seen this weekend are an indicator it could be worth while for those keen to experience REAL cold! Fires continue to burn brightly at all three Yeranda cottages and at Noonameena seeing Kev and Ros concentrating on wood gathering to "keep the home fires burning". Chances to book for winter are now minimal in the two smaller cottages but there are some vacancies in Elouera and Noonameena...think about getting together a group of friends and having a bit of well earned time out ...if only a couple of days.

 May 2007.

For those regular guests who keep an eye on our news section...Noonameena is already becoming a popular destination and is certainly impressing many Yeranda guests who are taking the chance of inspecting the new property. We have had so many encouraging comments and of course the feed back on the outside shower is no surprise to us! The view from the front deck is perfect with green paddocks and the hills in the distance are just as spectacular.

I have commenced work along Carowiry creek...more lantana eradication and the planning of just where to put in tracks so guests can enjoy the serenity of this beautiful creek. Also hoping to utilise old car tyres as steps ...a method I recently saw when trekking in New Zealand...will post some pics to our web site if I meet with success!!!

As with most areas we are experiencing incredibly mild conditions...more spring like than almost winter! Great conditions to sit by the out doors camp fire...time to think about making a booking......love to welcome you to either Yeranda or Noonameena.

We have received some excellent feed back from guests who are with us for 10 nights. Rather than let regular gym sessions lapse during the holiday there have been daily attendances at Studio One in Dungog and the report is that Sharon and Dave who run the training studio are very professional, friendly and supportive. Short term attendees are most welcome and the price is right! Appointment is essential as class size is limited. If you are heading our way and wish to go home a little fitter phone 49923122 for more info.

Whilst on "good feed back" ...nothing can compare with what we have been hearing about "Paradesha" ...homestyle cooking and catering at The Beatty Bistro. Amorelle Dempster is treating our area to the most amazing food which is influenced by her back ground ...

 "a heady brew of Sri Lankan, Portugese and Dutch culture". A visit to East Gresford for dine in or take away  (Lunch 12-3pm Dinner 6-9pm Thursdays to Mondays) seems like an experience all should indulge  in whilst visiting our area.

Below is shown Ros' blank greeting  cards which are  available to purchase for your own use or as a small gift for family or friends

There are sets of five different cards with quality envelopes for $10.00 plus $3.00 postage . Ideal as a small gift or a reminder of a visit to Yeranda. Just email ros@yeranda.com.au for more details on these cards.

Consider a Yeranda Gift Voucher as a special gift for a family member as a birthday or anniversary gift. We have had friends put in together to use a Yeranda Gift Voucher as a wedding gift, office workers pooled funds to give a newly engaged couple a weekend away...a most convenient gift and one that always seems to be greatly appreciated.