An historic Shoalhaven property's connection to the author of Frankenstein and the winner of the first ever Melbourne Cup are among the many interesting stories and facts being shared in new historic walking tours introduced at Coolangatta Estate.
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Almost 200 years since the first buildings were erected by Alexander Berry a Premium Tour and Historic Frolic have been introduced as guided walks for small groups.
This Premium Tour takes in the convict-built historic village which is recognised as the Shoalhaven's most significant colonial site.
Bruno Corletto leads the tours and draws on his four decades experience working at the estate as well as all the information passed on to him during his long and close friendship with the late Colin Bishop who restored the surviving buildings after acquiring the property mid last century.
Mr Corletto said it was a great opportunity for locals to learn all about the colonial past. He said every tour was different because people had so many different questions.
And at least one person in just about every tour group wants to know if there were ghosts in some of the 200 year old buildings. So he doesn't hesitate to share a few of the stories he has heard from guests and staff over the last four decades.
Mr Corletto said locals and visitors from outside the area were captivated by the incredible history of the site and how Coolangatta in Queensland got its name from the wreckage of a ship built at the Shoalhaven Heads estate by Alexander and David Berry.
He said he enjoys sharing many of mysteries borne from 200 years of colonial history and showing off some of the hidden treasures that have been found on the property.
The premium tour also includes a walk through one of the vineyards to learn about the estate's recent grape-growing history.
Mr Corletto said there was so many interesting things to share.
"A lot of people have been here before but didn't realise there was more to it and that they can see things like some original convict shackles that were found while ploughing up a paddock," he said.
Each visit ends in the cellar door for some wine tasting and deli board featuring locally produced cheeses, meats and olives.
The 2.5 hour premium tours are conducted on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10am.
The Historic Frolic is a two hour walk that also takes in the first convict-built catchment dam in Australia and the pioneer cemetery. It starts at 2pm on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Mr Corletto said bookings are required.
Read more:
- 30 years of wine is being celebrated at Coolangatta Estate over the June long weekend
- Australia's Semillon of the Year produced from grapes grown locally at Shoalhaven Heads
- The man who saved an important piece of Australian history on the South Coast remembered for his great legacy
- The Bishop family is preparing to mark 30 years of wine production in the Shoalhaven with a public tasting event in one of the oldest buildings in NSW
- Shoalhaven wine producer and tourist attraction showcases South Coast produce to holiday makers
- Record time for 2018 wine harvest at Coolangatta Estate
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
