With NSW experiencing one of its worst drought periods to date, local farmers are finding it increasingly difficult to effectively grow crops – an issue that severely affects surrounding towns and cities; big and small.
But there is hope yet! Regional NSW is very much open for business, and they’re here to help support those impacted by buying regional this Christmas.
In the spirit of 12 days of Christmas, here are 12 online sites that support our local farmers during this tough period.
For The Foodie
- Mudgee: Indigiearth
From the desert to the sea, Indigiearth products are the ultimate way to experience the wonderful world of Australian native ingredients. The Australian Aboriginal owned and operated business offers botanical skincare ($16-65), native teas ($15), saltbush dukkah ($9.50) and handpicked Australian native sauces & chutneys ($9.50-$14)
- Elong Elong (Central NSW): Murrungundy Pistachios
Fifth generation farmers producing a unique range of pistachios with great flavours: natural salt, salt and pepper, salt and vinegar, curry, chilli and dukkah ($10). There’s also fig & pistachio jam ($14) and red tomato and pistachio relish ($14).
- Narooma: Narooma Oyster Festival
Gift the oyster lover in your life a ticket to this in the heart of Australia’s Oyster Coast. Let them indulge in some of the world’s best oysters while enjoying live music, local art and other fresh produce.
For The Fashionista
Dubbo: Saddler & Co
Blends modern lifestyle with age-old Leather craftsmanship. Each piece is made by hand by a small local team, focusing on a range of signature leather tote bags ($449), notebook covers ($75), wallets ($65-$170), and everyday goods.
Nundle: Nundle Woollen Mill
One of the last spinning mills still operating in Australia, transforming raw wool into famous Nundle knitting yarn. Browse their online store and find a carefully curated collection of apparel, homewares, gifts, books and knitting accessories.
White Cliffs: Linda George Jewellery
A gold and silversmith living in a former opal mine underground in White Cliffs NSW. Linda makes unique artisan jewellery by hand and specialises in Australian opal.
For The Experience Lover
- Coffs Harbour: Giingan Cultural Experience
Engage in Gumbaynggirr culture through language, dance and stories. The Cultural Experience takes place at an important cultural site of the Gumbaynggirr people, the stunning location of “Niigi Niigi” (Sealy Lookout) within the Orara East State Forest on the NSW mid-North coast ($17 child, $33 adult & $85 family).
- Buckaroo: Lawson Farm Cottage
Built in 1880 this cosy cottage sits among a park like rural setting on 65 acres, just a short 5 minutes from the heart of Mudgee. The perfect gift for families, couples or friends (from $255 per night).
For The Little Ones
- Broken Hill: Wondering Ginge
Connecting city and country trends, this store offers stylish clothes for bubs and their Mums alike, plus a range of stationery ($6.50-$33), books ($6-$30) and toys ($10-$90).
- Gunning: Bandicute
An all-Australian children’s clothing company creating one of a kind pieces designed from scratch, including bibs ($15), rompers ($39.95-$52.95), harem pants ($44.95) and dresses ($59.95-$64.95).
For The Homewares Lover
- Tenterfield: Manual Arts Dept.
David and Carol are the maker duo behind this brand creating finely crafted and sustainably sourced hardwood boards ($52-$169) that can be personalised for a memorable Christmas gift.
- Yass: Merchant Campbell
Browse this store and find a curated collection of hand-made, ethically produced goods including candle stands made from recycled balustrades ($49.50), brass bottle openers ($22.50), ceramic soap dishes ($19.95) and linen cushion covers ($85).
