On Australia Day 2012 the Avoca Museum and Information Centre officially opened in Boucher Park. The 103 year old heritage listed building has been restored by Greater Esk Tourism to promote the beautiful Fingal Valley region as the "Valleys of Adventure" offering mountain climbs, bush walks, waterfalls and the world's tallest white gums. The old State School opened in 1908 at a cost of 348 pounds, and in 1929 there were 73 pupils enrolled. Prime Minister Joe Lyons visited the school in 1936, the year the wireless set and electric power were installed. A new school was built in 1951 and the Country Women's Association used the old building for many years but it fell into disrepair and suffered years of neglect until Greater Esk Tourism set about seeking restoration funding. After many unsuccessful attempts the volunteer group obtained AUD193,000 from the Urban Renewal and Heritage Fund, Tasmanian Community Fund, the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, Arts Tasmania and other bodies to fund the work, with volunteers completing the restoration. The Avoca Museum and Information Centre was opened by Mayor Kim Polley OAM at the Northern Midlands Council Australia Day celebrations.
Blue Pyrenees Estate was established in 1963 as Chateau Remy by the subsequent owners of the great champagne houses of Krug and Piper Heidsieck, Blue Prenees Estate was among the modern Australian wine industry's first ventures into cool climate viticulture. The estate is now 100 per cent Australian owned and are proud of the fact that all of their wines are made from grapes grown in their vineyards and produced in their estate winery. Blue Pyrenees Estate celebrated their 50th anniversary in April 2013, committed to making authentic estate wines that offer affordable luxury, and are of world class quality. Visit Blue Pyrenees Estate's cellar door to taste their award winning range of Sparkling wines and, red and white table wines. Discover some of Blue Pyrenees Estate's cellar only gems, such as their Viogneir, Pinot Noir, Botrytis Reisling and Tawny Port. They also have a range of gifts, local produce and accessories. While visiting the estate take the time to indulge yourself in their cafe, where they serve great coffee, tea and home made delights everyday. A la carte lunches are available on weekends and public holidays. Functions by appointment only. For any further information please contact Blue Pyrenees Estate or view their website.
With over 40 years of innovation and tradition, Mount Avoca is one of Australia's most exciting wineries. Located in the rolling foothills of the Pyrenees ranges, the unique and special sense of place that defines Mount Avoca begins in the cool climate organic vineyard where grapes are first nurtured and then hand-crafted into extraordinary wines. A deep understanding of the land helps to capture the distinctive regional terroir and great varietal character that defines the world's finest wines. Renowned for its reds, the Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are perennial medal winners and the recently released Reserve Shiraz and Sparkling Shiraz have added an extra dimension to an already formidable array. The Mount Avoca whites are defined by a house style that is elegant and refined. Layers of flavour and complexity are combined in wines with a delicate structure that are both delightful to drink and immensely satisfying on several levels, either on their own or matched with a wide range of cuisines. Enjoy panoramic views from around the property and the cellar-door. The Mount Gambier stone Cellar-door is modern and light-filled and looks onto the vineyard. Well appointed with a secure playground and several picnic areas, a log fire adds warmth in the winter months. Tempted to stay a while? Mount Avoca offers several accommodation options: eco-luxe is perfect for couples while The Homestead is the ideal family getaway. Visit their cellar-door open seven days, or stay longer in eco-luxury at one of their three lodges or The Homestead. Mount Avoca specialise in Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Fume Blanc, Viognier, Cabernet, Merlot, Shiraz, Tempranillo, Sparkling red and white. Mount Avoca have a barbecue, children's playground and Petanque piste available on site. Please contact for further information.