LOVE LOCAL. SHOP LOCAL.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of our region. They are the cafés that know your coffee order, the retailers who remember your name, the tradies who show up when something needs fixing, the makers, growers, creators, service providers and family businesses who bring life, character and connection to our towns.
They are also the people behind the counter, in the ute, at the workshop, on the farm, behind the laptop and at the kitchen table late at night, building something with their own hands, energy and belief.
NSW Small Business Month returns in October 2026 as the state’s largest celebration of small businesses, and with the support of ACEREZ, this feature is our way of joining that celebration locally.
Across our region, these businesses do far more than open their doors each day. They create jobs, support families, bring energy to our main streets and give back to the communities that support them. They sponsor the raffle, donate the prize, put their hand up for the school fundraiser, support the local event and say yes when the community needs them.
It is easy to think of shopping local as a nice idea, but in a regional community, it is much more than that. Every booking, every coffee, every bunch of flowers, every gift, every service, every meal out and every recommendation helps keep money moving through our towns and supports the people who make this region feel like home.
At Mid-Western Living, we have always believed local stories deserve to be seen and valued. Our pages are filled with the people, places and businesses who pour so much heart into what they do, and this feature is a celebration of just some of them.
We hope you discover someone new, revisit an old favourite, book the service, buy the gift, make the appointment, plan the visit or simply remember the power of choosing local whenever you can.
Because when we support local business, we are doing more than making a purchase. We are backing local families, local jobs, local dreams and the future of the towns we love.

If there’s one thing I truly love about creating this magazine, it’s shining a light on the incredible small businesses that make our region so varied and special.
This feature, in collaboration with ACEREZ, is a celebration of that spirit - a collaboration piece that brings together just a few of the many talented people who call the Mid-Western Region home.
These local businesses are doing extraordinary things, and I’m proud to share their stories.
— Rebecca

Tanks & Tailpipes brings together new and vintage automotive accessories, apparel and gifts for car and motorcycle enthusiasts.
It’s a great place to find something for the hard-to-buy-for person, with a mix of rare, nostalgic and genuinely unique pieces that make the little shop feel like a discovery in itself. Alongside the automotive range, you will also find locally handcrafted goods from Rylstone and beyond.
Tanks & Tailpipes is the kind of store worth stepping into for a browse, even if you are not quite sure what you are looking for. Chances are, you will find something that catches your eye, starts a conversation, or makes the perfect gift for someone who loves things with a bit of history, character and chrome.
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@tanksandtailpipes
61 Louee Street, Rylstone

Thoughtfully curated by owner Emily, Folkologie has become a beautiful part of Rylstone’s main street, bringing together her lifelong love of homewares, interiors and meaningful spaces.
That connection to place runs deep. Emily is a sixth-generation local, born and raised in the Rylstone-Kandos region, with family ties that stretch back to 1886 when her sixth great-grandfather, known as “Saddler Jim”, established his saddlery business in Rylstone. It is a legacy of craftsmanship, community and local pride that continues to inspire her today.
Inside, the store offers a carefully selected collection of locally and globally sourced homewares, gifts and artisan pieces. Each item chosen to complement Folkologie’s warm, earthy and considered style, with a focus on unique, handcrafted goods that feel beautiful and meaningful.
Whether in store or discovering online, Emily invites people to slow down, browse thoughtfully and find something special to take home.
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@folkologie
folkologie.com.au
84 Louee St, Rylstone

The store houses an extensive collection of vinyl records, CDs and music memorabilia, reflecting decades of musical history and changing tastes.

Whether you’re a lifelong collector, a casual browser or simply curious, it’s an enjoyable place to spend some time discovering forgotten favourites and unexpected finds.

Like many of Rylstone’s independent businesses, it adds to the town’s unique character, offering visitors another reason to stop by and browse awhile.

It’s also a place where conversations are sparked, memories are shared and the timeless appeal of music continues to connect generations.
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@rylstone-retro-records
45 Louee St, Rylstone

Tucked away at the northern end of Louee Street, Refuel Espresso Bar has become a favourite stop for locals and visitors looking for exceptional coffee and delicious homemade treats.
This charming hole-in-the-wall espresso bar may be small in size, but it’s big on flavour and country hospitality.
Fuelled by premium Seven Miles Coffee Roasters, Refuel serves expertly crafted takeaway coffee alongside a tempting selection of fresh, in-house baked sweet and savoury treats. From the ever-changing cake of the day to topped focaccia breads and freshly baked buns, there’s always something worth stopping for.
Whether you’re exploring Rylstone’s eclectic collection of boutique shops and eateries or simply passing through, Refuel Espresso Bar is the perfect place to pause, recharge and enjoy a taste of local goodness.
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Open Fri - Sun, 7am - 3pm
18-22 Louee St, Rylstone
@refuel_rylstone

Whether it’s time for your annual registration inspection or you’re simply making sure your vehicle is road-ready, Mudgee Pink Slips provides a reliable local service to help keep drivers safely on the road.
Conveniently located in Mudgee, the business offers authorised pink slip inspections with friendly, professional service and a focus on making the process as straightforward as possible.
Supporting locals from across the Mudgee region, Mudgee Pink Slips is part of the network of trusted small businesses that help keep our community moving, giving motorists peace of mind every time they get behind the wheel.
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02 6372 9718
8 Sydney Rd, Mudgee

Warp Arcade has brought something a little bit different to Mudgee.
Part café, part small bar and part old-school arcade, it is the kind of place where kids, parents, friends and visitors can all find something to love. From coffee and snacks to pizza, drinks and classic arcade machines, Warp Arcade is built around a simple idea: good food, good fun and a place for people of all ages to play.
Behind the business are Matt and Javi, who run Warp Arcade as a family business. Their fresh approach was recently recognised at the 2026 Magnificent Mudgee Business Awards, where Warp Arcade was named winner of the Innovation Award.
Whether you are chasing a coffee, a casual catch-up, a family-friendly outing or a nostalgic round on the arcade machines, Warp Arcade is a place made for switching off and having a bit of fun.
Grab the kids, call your friends, round up your mates and head down for a play.
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0432 924 101
Byron Place Carpark, Mudgee
@warparcade

Some of the best Mudgee moments happen between destinations.
E-Bike Supply Co makes that experience simple, fun and accessible, with e-bikes delivered directly to your accommodation or local business.
It means visitors can leave the car behind and enjoy a more relaxed way to discover the region, whether that is riding between wineries, heading out for coffee or uncovering a few hidden gems beyond the centre of town.
With local ride recommendations and everything needed to get started, E-Bike Supply Co offers a fresh way to experience Mudgee. It is easy, memorable and just the right amount of adventure.
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ebikesupplyco.com.au
@ebikesupplyco

For more than 35 years, NSW First Aid has been helping individuals, businesses and community organisations build the skills and confidence to respond in an emergency.
Based in Mudgee, this family-run business delivers nationally accredited first aid and workplace safety training, along with a comprehensive range of first aid supplies and emergency equipment.
Courses are available at the Mudgee training centre or can be delivered on-site, making training accessible for workplaces, schools, sporting clubs and community groups across the region.
With a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning and real-world experience, NSW First Aid continues to play an important role in helping keep our communities safe and prepared.
Gain lifesaving skills with practical, hands-on training for everyone across communities.
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1300 766 120
1/5 Industrial Ave, Mudgee
@nswfirstaid

Known for its fresh floral arrangements, premium handcrafted chocolates and beautiful range of boutique gifts, the store has become a favourite for thoughtful gestures, special occasions and everyday moments worth celebrating.
Founded by Kathryn Sloane in 2009, Forget Me Not Mudgee was created from a genuine love for the town. Kath’s grandparents lived in Mudgee, her parents grew up here, and it was the place she dreamed of calling home with her husband, Pete.
After Kath sadly passed away in 2014 following a two-year battle with cancer, Pete continued to keep the business going through an incredibly difficult time. He later met Carleen, and together they now run Forget Me Not Mudgee with the same care, warmth and commitment to quality that the store was built on.
From fresh flowers and award-winning chocolates to friendly service and carefully chosen gifts, Kathryn’s beautiful legacy remains very much alive and in safe hands.
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02 6372 2258
83 Market St, Mudgee
forgetmenotmudgee.com.au

As a locally owned Registered Training Organisation, Integral Skills delivers high-quality, nationally accredited training with a strong focus on high-risk work, mining and heavy industries. Their trainers are not removed from the realities of the job site. They are actively working in industry, bringing current knowledge, practical experience and a deep understanding of safety into every course they deliver.
The team offers flexible training options to suit both businesses and individuals, from private bookings that support workplace compliance through to public enrolments for those looking to upskill or gain new qualifications.
For local businesses, that flexibility means training can be shaped around operational needs, safety requirements and the realities of keeping teams moving. For individuals, it creates a practical pathway to build confidence, improve employability and take the next step in industries where skilled workers are in demand.
It is training designed for industry, delivered by people who know the industry, and built around the needs of the workforce at every stage.
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02 6372 0183
87 Lions Drive, Mudgee
integralskills.com.au

If you love a good browse, Stacks Down Under in Gulgong is well worth a visit.
Located beneath the IGA on Herbert Street, this family-run local favourite is packed with an impressive range of products. From hardware, homewares and kitchenware to gardening, camping, fishing, pet supplies, gifts and everyday essentials, there’s plenty
to discover.
Part of the fun is finding something you weren’t expecting, with an ever-changing selection of bargains, quirky finds and one-off treasures. With friendly local service and so much variety under one roof, there’s always something new to discover.
Whether you’re a local stocking up or a visitor exploring Gulgong, make time to head Down Under — you never know what you’ll find.
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02 6374 2675
89A Herbert St, Gulgong
@stacksdownunder

Sitting proudly in the heart of historic Gulgong, the Prince of Wales Hotel has been welcoming locals and visitors since 1872.
Proudly owned and operated by the Ellis family since 1976, this character-filled country pub combines old-world charm with the warm hospitality the region is known for.
Whether you’re stopping in for a delicious meal, catching up with friends or settling in for a stay in their award-winning accommodation, there’s plenty
to enjoy.
Classically country with a quirky personality all its own, the Prince of Wales is also a great base for exploring Gulgong and the wider Mudgee Region, with plenty to discover nearby.
For good food, welcoming hospitality, friendly local service and plenty of local character, the Prince of Wales is a Gulgong favourite.
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02 6374 1166
97 Mayne St, Gulgong
@POWGulgong

A relaxed local favourite, Gulgong Bowling Club is a welcoming place where good old-fashioned country hospitality is always on offer.
Whether you’re catching up with friends, enjoying a game of bowls or simply looking for somewhere comfortable to unwind, the club welcomes locals and visitors alike.
Keep an eye on the calendar for upcoming bowls fixtures, sporting events and what’s happening around the club.
Feeling hungry? Lucky Star Bistro serves up a delicious selection of homestyle Asian dishes, with options for everything from a casual meal to buffets, banquets, functions
and parties.
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02 6374 1054
18 Bulga St, Gulgong
gulgongbowlo.com.au

Built around good old-fashioned service and a love for feeding local families well, Butchers on Mayne has become a welcome part of Gulgong’s main street.
Bringing fresh meat, friendly faces and a strong community spirit to Mayne Street, it is the kind of local business that fits naturally into the weekly rhythm of town. Whether you are picking up something for dinner, planning a weekend barbecue or stocking the freezer, Butchers on Mayne is a place locals can rely on.
Behind the business are Kristy, Luke, Amalie and William, who run Butchers on Mayne as a family and are proud to be part of Gulgong’s everyday life.
For Kristy and her family, the butcher shop is about more than meat. It is about service, connection and creating a business the community is proud to support.
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02 6374 2021
118 Mayne St, Gulgong
@butchersonmayne

Set in a peaceful, tree-filled setting just a short stroll from Gulgong’s historic main street, Gulgong Tourist Park is the perfect base for exploring one of the Mid-Western’s most charming towns.
Offering a range of accommodation options, from comfortable self-contained cabins to spacious powered sites for caravans, motorhomes and campers, there’s something to suit everyone.
Recent upgrades, including modern amenities and a welcoming camp kitchen, have added even more comfort while retaining the park’s relaxed country atmosphere.
Whether you’re discovering Gulgong’s rich history, visiting nearby wineries or simply enjoying a quiet weekend away.
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02 6374 1294
8 Goolma Rd, Gulgong

From weekend projects around the home to bigger jobs on the land, Gulgong Timber, Hardware & Rural is a handy local destination for getting the job done.
Conveniently located on Bayly Street, the store brings together timber, hardware and rural supplies, making it a valuable stop for local tradies, property owners, farmers and keen DIYers alike. Whatever the task, having the right supplies nearby makes every project that little bit easier.
More than just convenience, shopping locally means having knowledgeable, friendly service close to home and supporting a business that’s part of the Gulgong community.
Whether you’re tackling repairs, starting a new project or picking up supplies for the property, call into Gulgong Timber, Hardware & Rural and find what you need locally.
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02 6374 2199
31-35 Bayly St, Gulgong
@gulgongtimber