Often referred to as the Horse Capital of Australia, the “Upper Hunter” is situated at the northern end of the Hunter Valley and encompasses an area of 8,060 sq km.
Endowed with rolling plains and rugged mountains, the Upper Hunter has an interesting rural history – and a taste for the good life. Boutique wineries in pretty valleys produce fine wines, while elegant restaurants and farmers’ markets showcase delicious local produce.
The Upper Hunter has a vibrant rural community that has been able to develop its own unique character, with Aberdeen, the home of the Australian Blue Heeler and host to the annual "Aberdeen Highland Games"; Merriwa in the west being well known for its popular "Festival of the Fleeces"; Murrurundi with one of the largest sheep dog trials in the state and more recently the annual "King of the Ranges Stockman's Challenge", and Scone renowned for its thoroughbred horse industry, and the long running "Scone & Upper Hunter Horse Festival". Adventure seekers can choose from hiking in national parks and fishing, waterskiing and kayaking in the area’s rivers and lakes—Lake Glenbawn & Lake Liddell.
Known for both wine and horses, the Upper Hunter is home to over 70 fine horse studs breeding winners for major horse races across the globe. Kia Ora, founded in 1912 is the birthplace of seven Melbourne Cup winners. All year round horse events are featured in the area with all disciplines being represented including polo, polocrosse, camp drafting, rodeos etc. These are brought together during the Horse Festival which runs for 16 days during May starting with a parade and ending with the Scone Emerites Cup which is the richest regional horse racing event in Australia.
Tours of both Horse Studs and vineyards can be arranged. Wine tasting is available at the many surrounding vineyards.
