On the back of the recent bushfire season and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Australia’s regional destinations are in great need of visitors and events to aid their recovery.

Lucky for us, Australia’s regional hubs are some of the country’s best locations for events, and no matter what state you’re in, there are stunning spots to discover.

Here are five regional hot spots across Australia, perfect for hosting events and incentives.

Yarra Valley, VIC

Within an hour’s drive of Melbourne CBD, Yarra Valley is perfect for groups looking to connect over memorable food and wine experiences.

MEET: More than just a winery, Rochford Wines is a versatile event venue with capacity for up to 500 guests or 7,000 guests in its outdoor space. The venue can host intimate dinners and small meetings too, with the Barrel Room and the Pinot Gallery among its popular spaces.

STAY: Set amongst a natural bush setting, RACV Healesville Country Club is a popular choice for business events groups with 80 accommodation rooms on offer. On-site conference facilities are also available to cater for up to 300 delegates.

EAT: Oakridge Wines has garnered a following, and many accolades, for both its wines and its food experience. The 120-seat restaurant, led by chefs Matt Stone and Jo Barrett, celebrates local produce and offers stunning views to match.

Ulladulla, NSW

Known for its picturesque harbour and bountiful seafood, Ulladulla is located in the Shoalhaven region of the NSW South Coast about three hours from Sydney.

MEET: Located between Milton, Ulladulla and Mollymook, Cupitt’s Winery and Restaurant combines a restaurant, winery, vineyard, kitchen garden, brewery and fromagerie. The venue can host banquets for 70 people or cocktail events for up to 150 guests.

STAY: Bannisters by the Sea and Bannisters Pavilion at Mollymook offer a stunning coastal setting for small groups and executive retreats. There are 67 rooms and two penthouses on offer across the two properties, plus on-site restaurants and bars.

LEARN: Nura Gunyu, led by Noel Butler, Budawang Elder from the Yuin Nation, and his wife Trish, offers Aboriginal cultural workshops on the NSW South Coast. After losing their property in the recent bushfires, Noel and Trish are now rebuilding in order to continue their educational programs.

Adelaide Hills, SA

A quick one-hour journey from Adelaide CBD, the Adelaide Hills offers secluded accommodation and
event spaces, plus stunning food and wine.

MEET: A popular destination for locals and visitors alike, Lot. 100 is the production site and cellar door for Mismatch Brewing Co. and Adelaide Hills Distillery. The venue can host intimate meetings through to 500 pax events, with options for tours and masterclasses.

STAY: Mount Lofty House, MGallery by Sofitel, is a stunning property that dates back to the 1850s. The hotel offers 32 elegant guest rooms, a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces and will soon be home to a $15 million luxury lodge.

EAT: Dine at Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, Mount Lofty House’s three-hatted restaurant, and enjoy a degustation menu by executive chef Jin Choi. For a VIP experience, dine in one of two private dining rooms and include a guided tasting in Arthur’s Wine Cellar.

Townsville, QLD

Located in North Queensland, Townsville is a relaxed coastal town and a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

MEET: The newly opened Queensland Country Bank Stadium is set to draw in sporting crowds and corporate groups alike. The venue offers several private event spaces with views of the field, while the field of play itself can be booked for large events.

STAY: The Ville Resort-Casino is a jewel in Townsville’s crown, offering 194 guest rooms and retro-luxe event spaces, following a $44 million revamp. Dedicated event venue The Pavilion can host theatre-style events for more than 1,000 guests.

PLAY: Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island is an island paradise, perfect for a post-conference tour. Delegates can explore WWII history on the Forts Walk or set off on a sailing
adventure with a local operator.

Margaret River, WA

Located in Western Australia’s South West, the Margaret River region is teeming with premium wineries, event venues and plenty of adventure.

MEET: Pullman Bunker Bay Resort spans 35 acres of native gardens and offers 150 villas. The resort also features more than 700 square metres of event space for up to 400 guests, ideal for residential conferences.

STAY: Built in 1912, Basildene Manor is an elegant country estate blending the grandeur of old world charm with contemporary style. The property features 19 rooms and suites, perfect for small corporate retreats.

EAT: With almost 50 years of winemaking history, Cullen Wines is a leader in biodynamic wines and produce. The Cullen Restaurant overlooks the vineyard and celebrates regional produce.

This article originally appeared in the Winter issue of Spice Magazine.
Subscribe here or read the full issue below: